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What Factors Does Google Consider for Local Organic Search?

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Alex Sparks
Alex Sparks
Updated - February 1, 2024

Google considers several factors when ranking local organic search results, primarily focusing on relevance, distance, and prominence. Here's a breakdown of some key factors:

Relevance:

  • On-page SEO: Google scans your website content for keywords and location mentions related to the user's search query. Ensure your title tags, meta descriptions, headers, and body text reflect your service and location accurately.
  • Google Business Profile (GBP): Optimize your GBP profile with complete and accurate information like business name, address, phone number, category, and description. Regularly update your opening hours, services offered, and photos.
  • Reviews and ratings: Positive reviews and high ratings boost your local ranking and indicate trust and credibility. Encourage customers to leave reviews on your GBP profile and other platforms.
  • Content freshness: Create and publish fresh content relevant to your local audience and industry. Local news, blog posts, and promotions can boost relevance and user engagement.

Distance:

  • User location: Google determines the user's location through various signals like IP address, GPS data, and search history. Businesses closer to the user's location tend to rank higher.
  • NAP consistency: Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across your website, GBP profile, and other online listings. Inconsistencies can confuse Google and negatively impact ranking.

Prominence:

  • Backlinks: High-quality backlinks from local and relevant websites signal authority and trustworthiness to Google. Focus on building relationships with local businesses and organizations for potential backlinks.
  • Citations: Mentions of your business name and address on other websites, online directories, and local publications can contribute to prominence. Actively submit your business to relevant directories and encourage mentions in local press.
  • User engagement: Google also considers user engagement metrics like website traffic, click-through rates, and time spent on page. Optimize your website for local searchers by providing relevant content, user-friendly website design, and mobile responsiveness.

Remember, Local SEO is an ongoing process, and your local ranking might fluctuate. Consistent optimization across all these factors will help you achieve long-term success in local organic search.

Bonus: Google constantly updates its algorithms, so staying informed about the latest local SEO trends and best practices is important. Consider following SEO blogs or attending industry events to stay ahead of the curve.

I hope this information helps! Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.