Local SEO Industry Market Insights: How to dominate the Local SEO Landscape

In today's digital age, where businesses thrive on their online presence, harnessing the power of local SEO has become an indispensable strategy.

Local SEO, or local search marketing, is a game-changer for businesses aiming to attract local customers effectively.

This article dives deep into the dynamic landscape of the local SEO search market, exploring its intricacies, essential metrics, benefits, and strategies for local business success. So, let's go deeper into the insight of 2023.

Local SEO Market statistics

Making informed marketing choices necessitates the presence of data. Certain pivotal facets of your enterprise, such as local SEO, frequently adopt an air of uncertainty without industry insights.

Employing statistics becomes indispensable for optimizing your business promotion strategies. For instance, data serves as a compass, steering you through interactions with your community while establishing your visibility on eminent search platforms like Google and Bing.

This is precisely where local SEO statistics assume significance. Our repository of data and statistics is primed to unveil the formidable prowess of local SEO, underscored by concrete evidence that addresses pivotal inquiries concerning your business.

Why Local SEO Matters

Local SEO, or search, is integral to the SEO strategy of targeting customers in a specific region, city, or neighborhood. In simple terms, local SEO is where you want to get your first wins with ranking and visibility in the local search results.

Places like Google Map Pack / Local Pack. Organic SEO is when you improve your webpage ranking in organic search.

Why Local Search is important.

Here are a few more interesting stats for local search you should be aware of. Of for your business:

Based on Google stats, 80% of people who search on Google with their smartphone visit a business 24 hours later, and 28% of those search results are conversions (purchases).

According to google, More than30% of all searches processed are location-related.

According to a survey, on search, it was found that 61% of consumers search for local information on a daily basis.

The survey also revealed that during their searches, 82% of consumers read reviews for businesses and spend approximately 14 minutes doing so before making a decision.

Moreover,86% of people rely on Google Maps to locate businesses. When it comes to SMB searches, Yelp appears in the five search results about 92% of the time.

On a scale, around 74% of shoppers who visit stores have already performed an online search beforehand. These searches typically include queries like finding the store or checking product availability nearby. Additionally, more than half of Internet users worldwide prefer using devices for their searches.

Regarding search engines for learning about businesses, 83% use Google Search, followed by 55% who utilize Google Maps.

For Apple device users, around 44% rely on Apple Maps, while 39% turn to Yahoo and 31% choose Bing.

How Google Determines Local ranking

According to Google, three factors influence rankings;
1. Relevance 2. Distance 3. Prominence

In their guide on improving rankings, Google advises businesses to provide detailed information about their establishments.

This helps the search engine understand their profiles better and ensures they align well with search queries.

The Power of Local SEO

In a quick summary:

Local SEO is a powerful marketing technique where you bring in qualified traffic, enhance your online reputation, and not rely just on ads to grow your business.

You do not need to be a Google webmaster to get started with Local SEO, and you can start seeing results faster without working harder thanks to some fantastic online tools.

Some of those tools, like Semrush's or aHrefs, can help you manage listing so you can feel confident and ahead with the basic stuff.

How solid local SEO strategy can boost your business?

With so many online strategies for promoting your products and services, you might get confused and ask yourself if investing in local SEO is worth the investment for your business.

If you're a company that relies on local customers, then yes! Studies have shown that dedicating resources to a local SEO service is one of the best uses of marketing investment you can make. Not doing so could mean losing to your competitors. What are the benefits?

Listing your business on different directories puts you where your potential customers are looking and gives you results faster.

More customers through your doors

One of the most obvious reasons and benefits of the power of local SEO is that it helps with nearby searches in your local area.

Most locals use local search on the go, tools like Google Maps, and queries like '' sport gym near me'' to quickly view the closest options.

Staying Ahead in the Local SEO Race

As AI technology transforms the search engines and the threat of accessible competition, keeping up with Google search and SEO has never been more important.

The latest Google algorithm tweaks and features can damage your website in minutes. We want to help you prepare for the updates of 2023 and any other updates in the future.

Here are some of the leading Google factors to stay ahead:

1. Customer reviews Management

Respond to customer reviews, good or bad, promptly. Create unique content on your website based on the city where your business operates to target local keywords better and attract local customers.

2. Optimize Google Business Profile

Your Google Business profile is the life and breath of your Local SEO. Make the most of it by optimizing the following categories:

Category rotation

Depending on your business's season, you can shift the category according to the demand. This ensures that your profile aligns with the changing needs of your audience.

Link strategically

Link your business Google Business profile to a specific and relevant page on your website for backlinks and optimal impact on local search.

Keyword alignment

Analyze organic search results for your main keywords to know the best-performing pages. Link your profile to the top-ranking pages to enhance your local search visibility.

3. Take advantage of video content

In recent years, video content has been a significant factor in engaging audiences and conveying messages. Google now recognizes video's influence and popularity in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Did you know that video search results are localized? Viewers near your business location are more likely to encounter your video content, giving you a competitive advantage in your local market.
How you can use video to impact your Local SEO:

Videos that are top-performing on my site

Use the top-performing video in pages to enhance user engagement over time.

Tracking in Search Console

Please keep track of the best video performance separately within Google Search Console to gain insights into their effectiveness.

4. Craft impactful videos content.

It's not just about video quality. Authenticity is vital to building a real human connection with your audience.

Here are some ways you can craft impactful videos:

Showcase your business

• Show your business operations, brand value, and team members. State what sets you apart from the competition.

Share Testimonials

• Let the testimonials build trust with genuine customer reviews.

Avoid over-editing

Be open to genuine failure over overly polished content. Users tend to appreciate real, relatable videos.

5. Take advantage of texting for enhanced communication.

One way users like to communicate is texting, especially among younger generations. Giving them text-based communication options on your website can enhance customer interactions and help with lead generation.

Quick tips on how to make the most of texting:

Mobile-friendly texting

• Knowing that more than half of the website traffic comes from mobile devices, we offer seamless text communication options for user a friendly experience.

Intergrate texting apps

• Tools like leadferno facilitate the process of website-to-text intergration, faciliting multiple team members to engage with potential customers from anywhere.

Utilize analytics

• Use analytics provided by texting apps to gain insights into customer behavior and bridge the gap between website visits and conversions.

6. Share unique and valuable insights.

Transparency and valuable information build trust with your audience. The information you share openly, can establish credibility and showcase your expertise.
Tactics you may want to concider:

Offer step-by-step guide and DIY content

• Provide tutorials, guides, and DIY content that addresses common questions or challenges your audience may have.

Show your pricing

• Display pricing information to help potential customers make buying decisions and eliminate the need for unnecessary inquiries.

Address basic information

• Many users prefer accessing basic information without making direct calls. You save them time and effort by providing upfront answers.

Learn more: How to rank higher on local search (with step-by-step)

The six critical elements of local SEO

You already know that half of Google searches are conducted with local intent. More than 97% of search engine users use the platform to find local businesses. These are impressive numbers that represent a powerful resource.

However, local SEO strategies differ completely from generic, global SEO keyword strategies. They're targeting a physical—geographic location combined with a specific search term.

A solid local SEO strategy will send significant signals to the searcher and improve your relevance in the local market. This increase in traffic creates another movement that, if your site has a match for that search, can increase your business's popularity and ranking.

But we all know the end game is to boost targeted local traffic and sales. Then the question becomes this: What are the critical elements of a prosperous regional SEO strategy?

#1 Optimize Your Google My Business Profile

When you google your own business. What did you find? How does it show up in the search results? Is the information updated? Does it also list your competitors? How does your information compare? Are you seeing the Google Maps listing?

You need to focus on the data you have access to. To enhance your rankings, update the information and settings in your Google My Business profile. Google categorizes this information using three criteria;

Relevance

Those your GMB is relevant to search? Soest it share content and themes, not just keywords, with the intent of finding your business on the search?

Distance

When the algorithm discerns that your profile brims with finely-tuned, pertinent data, yet your physical presence stretches to distant horizons, your listing shall ascend the ranks, surpassing those less attuned.

Prominence

This metric derives its essence from the web's sprawling tapestry of information interwoven with your business's digital imprint, as observed by the omniscient eye of Google across the expanse of the internet.

GMB Data Focus

Now, let's delve into the heart of GMB optimization, where these focal points illuminate the path:

1. Thorough and Precise Contact Information
2. Location Verification
3. Strategic Deployment of Visual Chronicles
4. Product Offerings Catalog
5. Transparent Management of Reviews

#2 Using Targeted Local Keywords

Engage in research to discover keywords and phrases that attract traffic to a specific location. Dive into your industry's core topics. Understand the overarching theme that shapes your content.

From this, you want keywords and create long-tail phrases that align with the local context. Let the connection between the topic and location bring your presence to life;

Examples;

• A Digital PR Agency Excelling in (your city)
• Thriving as a Premier Digital PR Agency in (your city)
• Unveiling Excellence; (your city) based SEO Consultant

Incorporate these targeted treasures across your content through blog articles, website text, or compelling digital ads and product descriptions. Within the realm of social media, allow these keywords to shine. Observe how your visibility rises on Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs), demonstrating that your themes resonate throughout the landscape beyond listings.

These valuable keywords find their place in domains;

• On-page SEO ( blog articles and website content, etc.)
• Your GMB profile data
• Social Media
• Technical SEO data (site map, navigation, etc.)
• Off-page SEO (Guest posts, backlinks, etc.)

#3 Optimize On-Page SEO

Audit all written website content and improve it with targeted keywords in as many places as possible:

• Website content body
• H1 or headings and titles
• H2 headings
• Page titles
• Tags
• Page description
• Page URLs

Remember to not keyword stuff your website. Try to make it look more natural and not spammy. It goes against the AI bots of Google and will hurt your SEO rankings. Optimize your URL by placing keyphrases at the front end for better results.

Create different location pages that share who you are and what community you're following. Include up-to-date information such as new parking spots, upcoming promotions, current promotions, and satisfied client testimonials.

If you have multiple locations, create one page for each, but be careful for duplicated content, as Google isn't thrilled with ''copy and paste'' information.

The Ever-Changing Landscape of Local SEO

The changing landscape of SEO is a dynamic field that constantly evolves. In the past, local businesses could get by without keeping up with the trends in SEO. However, the digital world has changed.

In today's world, every business needs to establish a presence. Customers expect to find their local companies in search results. You're taking advantage of an opportunity if you're not visible online.

So, how can you surpass your competition in this evolving SEO landscape?

In 2023, local search optimization is more focused than on improving the customer experience. This includes voice searches, optimizing sites, and understanding their impact on customer satisfaction.
Let's explore these emerging trends together by reviewing statistics and discussing strategies for success in this dynamic SEO environment.

Prioritizing User Experience

For 2023, user experience (UX) takes the stage in SEO. In May 2020, Google announced its intention to consider UX signals when ranking websites.

This involves evaluating factors like page loading speed, ease of navigation, and overall user experience across both desktop platforms. These factors influence a website's position in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Google provides the Google Search Console to help businesses improve their user experience (UX). Within this console is a section called "Core Web Vitals" that offers insights into how Google evaluates the UX of websites.

What can you do to enhance your website UX?

Contrary to practices where pop-up and banner ads were common, these ads are now considered detrimental. Users find them intrusive and annoying. It is crucial to eliminate ads to maintain SEO performance.

Furthermore, the speed of your website plays a role. Tools available can help you assess the loading time of your website on different platforms, including iOS and Android smartphones, desktop computers, and tabl

For businesses, aligning your website navigation with user preferences is essential. Ensure vital information like contact details, store hours, and addresses are easily accessible from the homepage.

The Importance of Google My Business

Google My Business (GMB) has become increasingly significant in times and even more critical now.

Google has focused on understanding search intent rather than just relying on keywords. When users search for services, like " realtor," Google utilizes location-based information to display the realtors in their local area. This is where having a Google My Business listing becomes crucial.

Why is Google My Business (GMB) so crucial for businesses? Studies show that nearly half of all companies receive more than a thousand monthly views on their GMB listings.

To maximize the performance of your GMB listing, follow these steps;

• Make sure your profile is complete with information.
• Regularly update your business hours. Post content every two weeks.
• Encourage engagement and activity on your listing to boost your rankings.

Next, let's talk about the rise of zero-click results.

While it may seem discouraging, it's crucial to acknowledge this trend. In 2019, more than 50% of Google searches provided users with information directly from the search results page, eliminating the need to visit a website.

So what can businesses do in response?

1. Firstly, ensure that your GMB and Google Maps listings are up-to-date and informative. Users often rely on these platforms to find the information they need about your business.

2. Additionally, focus on creating informative content on your website that cannot fully access through search results alone. Optimize keywords to drive users to explore more on your website.

3. Lastly, despite the growing prominence of zero-click results, remember that having a maintained business website remains an asset. It acts as a tool to establish trust with consumers.

According to BrightLocal, 56% of consumers rely on websites for information, such as a business location, operating hours, and contact details. Additionally, 50% of consumers would be less inclined to engage with a company that needs up-to-date contact information on its website.

Because of this, it is crucial to maintain an updated website offering a user experience that ultimately enhances customer trust and satisfaction.

The Importance of Mobile Optimization

Mobile optimization has become increasingly significant as customers use their devices for searches and purchases. Recent studies indicate that 52.2% of website traffic comes from machines.

Google now prioritizes design over desktop design by indexing websites using mobile-first indexing.
The user experience on devices significantly impacts search rankings.

To achieve optimization, consider the following factors;

• Ensure the font size is suitable for mobile users.
• Make essential information easily accessible on mobile devices.

Voice Search and its Influence on SEO

Voice search is gaining popularity as users interact with their devices differently than typing into a search bar. Voice searches are more conversational and longer.

To rank well in voice searches, businesses must align their website content with how people speak. Recent data indicates the significance of voice search as 75% of individuals who own speakers use them to search for local businesses.

Moving on to the point, video content has gained influence in the realm of SEO. Many searches now result in zero-click outcomes, often involving Google Maps or Google My Business listings.

Additionally, users find satisfaction in encountering video content displayed within search results.

Forrester Research has discovered that video content is more likely to appear in search results. This is because consumers value video content for its ability to provide a trustworthy representation of products, services, and businesses.

Impressively, 84% of people consider video content when making purchasing decisions. However, it is essential to note that text-based content remains relevant amidst the increasing importance of multimedia materials for businesses. Successful blog posts nowadays have a length of1,142 words. This trend is projected to continue.

Local businesses should address their customer's questions and concerns by offering blog posts. For instance, a roofer based in San Diego could create content centered around topics such as earthquake roofing materials and durability under climate conditions.

Local businesses should address their customer's questions and concerns by offering blog posts. For instance, a roofer based in San Diego could create content centered around topics such as earthquake roofing materials and durability under climate conditions.

Lastly, there has been an evolution in search intent, with terms like "to buy" experiencing a 500% increase in search usage. Google has started customizing search results to match the intentions behind searches better.

To rank well, businesses must create content that aligns with what users seek. This involves addressing customer queries and worries in a natural writing style, focusing on searches.

One crucial factor is the impact of reputation. Online reviews influence search rankings, with 87% of consumers reading them.
Businesses should link to reviews on platforms like Yelp and Facebook to enhance their presence. Demonstrate their attentiveness towards customer feedback.

To sum up, the SEO landscape of 2023 is characterized by shifts and evolving consumer habits. Local businesses must adjust to these trends by giving importance to user experience, optimizing their visibility, and crafting valuable, captivating content.

By embracing these approaches, they can not boost their search rankings. Also, enhance customer satisfaction and build trust.

Let us know what you think.

That's it for today, folks. I hope you enjoyed this article on the latest local SEO trends and stats. Please feel free to leave us a message, comment below, or any other information related to this article.

About the 2023 local SEO Search industry market insights

This local market insight gathers local sources and industry-leading websites—thanks to LocalIQ, Brightlocal, and Semrush.