Google’s search ranking algorithm is complex and constantly evolving, taking into account various factors to determine the order in which websites appear in local search results. While I don’t have access to the specific details of Google’s current algorithm beyond my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, I can provide you with some general insights on how local search rankings work.
1. Google My Business: Setting up and optimising your Google My Business (GMB) profile is crucial for local search rankings. Ensure your GMB profile is complete and accurate with consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) information, business hours, website URL, and relevant categories.
2. Relevance: Google considers the relevance of a business to a particular search query. It’s important to have detailed and accurate information on your website, including keywords relevant to your business and location.
3. Distance: Google takes into account the proximity of the searcher’s location to the business being searched. If a user doesn’t specify a location in their search query, Google will use the user’s current location to provide relevant results.
4. Prominence: The prominence of a business is determined by its overall online presence, including factors such as the number and quality of reviews, ratings, backlinks, social media engagement, and overall brand reputation.
5. Reviews and Ratings: Positive reviews and high ratings from customers on platforms like Google, Yelp, and other review sites can positively impact your local search rankings. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, respond to reviews (both positive and negative), and provide an excellent customer experience.
6. Website Optimisation: On-page optimisation techniques such as including relevant keywords in titles, headings, meta tags, and content can help improve your local search rankings. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and provides a good user experience.
7. Citations and Backlinks: Having consistent and accurate business information (NAP) across various online directories, as well as earning high-quality backlinks from reputable websites, can contribute to your local search visibility.
8. Local Content and Engagement: Creating locally-focused content, such as blog posts or articles about events, news, or resources related to your community, can help establish your website’s relevance to local searches. Engage with your local community through social media and other platforms.
Remember that search engine algorithms are dynamic, and Google’s ranking factors may change over time. It’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest best practices in SEO and local search optimisation. Additionally, consider hiring an SEO professional or agency experienced in local search to assist you in optimising your online presence for better rankings.
