2023’s Top 7 Local Search Ranking Factors, Illustrated and Explained
Local search rankings are a major factor in how users decide which business to visit or which product to buy. Therefore, having a strong understanding of the most important ranking factors can help businesses greatly improve visibility in local search results.
Below is a list of the top 7 local search ranking factors for 2023, along with explanations about how each factor can be used to improve your visibility in local search results:
1. Proximity to the Searcher
Proximity between the searcher and the business is one of the most important factors when it comes to local search rankings. Generally speaking, businesses that are located closer to the searcher will rank higher than those further away. When optimizing for local search rankings, it is important to include your business’s physical address and be sure that it is accurate and up to date.
2. Relevancy to the Searcher’s Query
Relevancy to the searcher’s query is another ranking factor that is taken into account by local search algorithms. Businesses should be sure to include key words and phrases related to the products or services they offer in their website content, website metadata, and other on-site content such as blog posts and articles.
3. The Quality and Quantity of Online Reviews
Online reviews are another important ranking factor in local search rankings. Businesses should strive to get as many positive reviews as possible, as these can greatly improve visibility in local search rankings. It is also important to respond to both negative and positive reviews in a timely manner, as this shows potential customers that you are active and engaged with your customer base.
4. Business Citations
Business citations are references to a business that include its name, address, and phone number also referred to as NAP. These citations can be found in online directories, websites, social media accounts and more. Having a consistent list of business citations across the web is an important factor in local search rankings.
5. Social Media Presence
Social media has become an increasingly important factor in local search rankings. Having an active presence on social media can help to build brand awareness and trust with potential customers, which can in turn help to improve local search rankings.
6. Website Authority and Quality
The authority and quality of a website is another ranking factor in local search. Having a well-designed website that is user-friendly and provides good information about the products or services your business offers can help to improve visibility in local search results.
7. The Quality of Your Content
Finally, the quality of the content on a website is also important. Creating content such as blog posts, articles, or product reviews that is interesting, informative and relevant to your target audience can help to improve local search rankings.
In conclusion, these are the top 7 local search ranking factors for 2023. By optimizing for each of these factors, businesses can greatly improve their visibility in local search results and reach more potential customers.
