Search engine optimization, or SEO, is a key aspect of any online marketing strategy. It involves optimizing the content and structure of a website to rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs) for specific keywords and phrases. For most businesses, targeting a specific geographic area is key and that’s where local SEO comes into play. As a distributor, it can be very helpful to incorporate local SEO techniques into your marketing strategy.

Let’s see how distributors can use local SEO to their advantage.

1. Optimize for Local Keywords: One of the first steps to using local SEO to your advantage is to optimize your website for local keywords. These are keywords and phrases specific to your target location. For example, if you are a garden tool distributor in Chicago, your local keywords might include “garden tools Chicago” or “garden tools Chicago.” By including these keywords in your website content, meta tags, and URLs, you increase your chances of being found by potential customers looking for your products in your area.

2. Create and optimize your Google My Business listing: Google My Business is a free tool that helps businesses manage their online presence on Google, including their business listings and location on Google Maps. As a distributor, it is extremely important to create and optimize your company listing in Google My Business. This includes providing accurate and up-to-date information about your business, such as your address, phone number, and opening hours. Optimizing your listing can increase your chances of appearing in Google’s local three-pack, which appears at the top of search results.

3. Use local directories: In addition to Google, other local directories such as Yelp, Yellow Pages, and local chambers of commerce can help increase your website’s visibility in local searches. These directories give your business additional online visibility and improve your local SEO ranking. Be sure to secure and optimize your listings in these directories by providing accurate and consistent information about your business, including local keywords.

4. Generate local citations: A local citation is any mention of your company’s name, address and telephone number (NAP) on the Internet. These citations may come from local directory listings, social media profiles, or websites that mention your business. A consistent NAP for all these citations can help improve local SEO. Ask your customers to leave reviews, which can also serve as a quote for your business.