What are local queries?
Local queries are search queries that contain location-specific terms, such as a city name, zip code, or "near me".
These types of queries have become more common as search engines have improved their ability to provide personalized and relevant search results.
Local queries work more for businesses that serve customers in a specific geographic location, such as brick-and-mortar stores or service providers.
By optimizing their website for local queries, businesses can improve their visibility in search results and attract more potential customers in their area.
Why are local queries important?
Local queries are important because they allow users to find businesses, products, and services that are specific to their geographic location.
For businesses that serve customers in a specific geographic location, such as local stores or service providers, optimizing for local queries is essential to improving their visibility in search results.
Also, businesses can improve their chances of appearing in local search results and reaching their target audience.
In addition, many people use their mobile phones to search for businesses near their location.
By providing accurate and helpful information about a business's location, operating hours, and customer reviews, businesses can attract more visitors to their website and physical store.
This is because when people have access to this information, they are more likely to visit the business in person.
Therefore, it's important for businesses to optimize their online presence to increase both website traffic and foot traffic to their shop.
How to optimise them?
There are ways by which you can optimise local queries.
Appropriate use of keywords
One of the most effective ways to optimize for local queries is to include location-specific keywords and phrases throughout the website.
This can include mentioning the business's location in the metadata, creating content that is specific to the local area, and using local keywords in titles and descriptions.
For example, a local bakery could use keywords like "fresh bread in [city name]" or "artisanal pastries near me" to optimize for local search queries.
Google My Business profile
Another important factor to consider is the business's Google My Business profile. This tool allows businesses to claim and optimize their listing on Google, which can help improve visibility in local search results.
A complete and accurate profile can provide users with important information, such as the business's address, phone number, hours of operation, and customer reviews.
Mobile-friendliness
It's also important for businesses to ensure that their website is mobile-friendly, as many users perform local queries on their mobile devices.
A mobile-friendly website not only improves user experience but also increases the chances of the website appearing in local search results.
Relevant information
Finally, businesses should aim to provide useful and relevant information to potential customers in their area.
This can include information about the products or services they offer, customer reviews, and any promotions or events that the business may be running.
Conclusion
Local queries are an essential aspect of SEO for businesses that serve customers in a specific geographic location.
By optimizing their website and Google My Business profile for local queries, businesses can improve their visibility in search results and attract more potential customers in their area.