Summary: Want to rank your local business on Google without hiring an expensive agency? This DIY SEO checklist will help you optimize your site, content, and online presence to rank locally and bring in consistent foot traffic and leads.
✅ 1. Set Up & Optimize Your Google Business Profile
- Claim your listing at Google Business
- Add NAP (Name, Address, Phone) — keep this consistent everywhere
- Add high-resolution photos of your location, team, products/services
- Use keywords in your business description (e.g., “organic bakery in Brooklyn”)
🗺️ Pro Tip: Post updates and offers weekly to keep your profile active.
✅ 2. Do Local Keyword Research
Use tools like:
- Google Keyword Planner
- Ubersuggest
- Google autocomplete suggestions
Look for keywords like:
- “best plumber in Austin”
- “emergency dentist near me”
- “coffee shop open late downtown”
Add location-specific terms to your service pages and blog posts.
✅ 3. Optimize On-Page SEO
Each page should include:
- Title tag (with primary keyword + city)
- Meta description (short, clear, and includes city/service)
- H1 tag: clear headline with your keyword
- Image ALT tags: describe images with keywords (e.g., “downtown Austin taco shop”)
🎯 Keep URLs short and keyword-relevant:
✅ /roof-repair-boston
❌ /page-id=2739
✅ 4. Use Structured Data (Schema)
Implement LocalBusiness schema using Schema.org to help search engines understand:
- Business name
- Location
- Operating hours
- Reviews
Tools like RankMath or Yoast for WordPress can help automate this.
✅ 5. Get Listed in Online Directories
Submit to:
- Yelp
- Bing Places
- TripAdvisor
- YellowPages
- Chamber of Commerce
Ensure 100% consistency with your NAP across every listing.
✅ 6. Get Reviews & Respond
Ask every happy customer to leave a Google review. Respond to all reviews (positive or negative) with professionalism and care.
🌟 Tip: Don’t offer incentives for reviews. It violates Google’s guidelines.
✅ 7. Mobile + Speed Optimization
- Use Google’s PageSpeed Insights to test your site
- Use mobile-friendly themes and compress images
- Ensure clickable phone numbers for mobile users
📱 Over 60% of local searches happen on phones—don’t overlook this.
Final Word:
SEO doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow this checklist consistently, and you’ll start climbing the local search rankings in weeks—not months.