In today’s digital landscape, having an online presence is essential for local businesses. But simply having a website isn’t enough—you need to ensure potential customers can find you. This is where Search Engine Optimization (SEO) comes in. By implementing a few key SEO strategies, you can improve your visibility and attract more local clients. Here’s how:
1. Optimize for Local Keywords
Start by researching keywords that potential customers might use when searching for your services. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find terms that relate to your business, such as “web design South Wales” or “SEO services for small businesses.” Incorporating these into your website’s content, headings, and meta descriptions will help you rank higher for relevant searches.
2. Claim Your Google My Business Listing

Google My Business is probably the most important thing on this list. Google My Business (GMB) is a free tool that allows you to manage how your business appears in Google Search and Maps. Claiming and optimising your GMB listing ensures that your business shows up in local searches. Add accurate contact details, business hours, and high-quality images to make your listing stand out. You can claim your GMB listing here.
3. Build Local Citations
Local citations are mentions of your business on directories and websites like Yelp or TripAdvisor. These citations signal to Google that your business is legitimate and relevant to your area. Ensure your business details (name, address, phone number) are consistent across all platforms.
4. Get Reviews
Positive customer reviews can significantly boost your local SEO. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your Google My Business profile. Google uses reviews as a ranking factor, so the more positive reviews you have, the better your chances of appearing in local search results.
5. Optimise Your Website for Mobile
A large portion of local searches are done on mobile devices. Ensure that your website is mobile-friendly by using responsive design and fast-loading pages. Google also prioritises mobile-friendly websites in its search results, making this a crucial part of your SEO strategy. You can read more about the importance of mobile optimisation for SEO here.
6. Create Localised Content
Content marketing is a powerful tool for SEO. Write blog posts or case studies relevant to your local area. For example, you could write about successful projects you’ve completed for local businesses or industry-specific tips that cater to your region. For example, as an Ebbw Vale business we’ve made pages specifically for this area to cater to our local customers, such as our Website Design in Ebbw Vale page.
7. Use Schema Markup

Schema markup is code you can add to your website’s header to help search engines understand your business better. For local SEO, use schema to highlight your business location, services, and customer reviews. This will increase your chances of appearing in local search features like rich snippets. A useful tool to check if your page has relevant schema markup is Google’s own Schema Checker.
Conclusion
SEO is a long-term investment, but these tips can help your local business get found online faster. By optimising for local keywords, managing your Google My Business listing, and building local citations, you’ll be well on your way to improved visibility in local searches. If you’re ready to improve your local SEO, contact Blackoak Creative for personalised support!