Introduction
Thanks to the growth of mobile technology, the digital revolution has transformed local search in recent years and will continue to do so in the years ahead. With local search now being used more than ever before, it’s vital for marketers to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tactics to ensure their business is visible to local customers. Here, we explore the key trends in local search for 2023 and the tactics marketers should employ.
Trend 1: Mobile First
Mobile searches are now more common than desktop searches, and Google is adjusting its local search algorithm to reflect this. Its updated mobile-first index means that relevance and position in search results will be determined by the quality of the content and usability of the website as experienced on mobile devices. This means that businesses must ensure their websites are mobile-friendly, with a fast loading speed, clear content and an optimized search engine.
Tactics to Employ
• Optimize website design and content for mobile
• Make sure website is fast loading and content is easy to read
• Invest in SEO and local SEO techniques
Trend 2: Localized Content
For enhanced visibility, marketers must focus on localized content, which is tailored to local customers. This means creating content that speaks directly to their local audience, such as a blog post about a local event or news about your business in the area. Utilizing local keywords and phrases in content is also essential, as this will help your business rank higher in local search results.
Tactics to Employ
• Create content that speaks directly to local customers
• Utilize local keywords and phrases
• Make sure content is up-to-date and relevant
Trend 3: Voice Search
Voice search is growing in popularity and is becoming increasingly important in local search. This means businesses must ensure their content is optimized for voice search through the use of long-tail keywords and phrases, which are more natural language and more conversational than traditional keywords. In addition, it’s important to optimize content for Google’s featured snippets, as these often appear at the top of voice search results.
Tactics to Employ
• Utilize long-tail keywords and phrases
• Optimize content for featured snippets
• Ensure content is conversational
Trend 4: Reviews and Reputation
Reviews and reputation are essential for ranking in local search results, with the more positive reviews a business has, the higher it will appear in the rankings. Businesses should make sure they’re monitoring their reviews and responding to any negative feedback. They should also be actively encouraging customers to leave reviews, as well as responding to any queries quickly and efficiently.
Tactics to Employ
• Monitor reviews and respond to negative feedback
• Encourage customers to leave reviews
• Respond to customer queries quickly and efficiently
Conclusion
Local search is becoming increasingly important, and it’s vital for businesses to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tactics. Mobile first, localized content, voice search, and reviews and reputation are all key trends in local search for 2023, and by employing the suggested tactics, businesses can ensure they’re visible to local customers and ranking highly in local search results.
