This guide is the distillation of almost 20 years of experience. It is updated at least twice yearly with new information and processes that reflect the current best practices.
What is SEO?
SEO = Search Engine Optimization. The goal is for your pages to rank higher than your competitors in keyword searches, preferably in position #1 or at least the top 3, and certainly above your competitors. Additionally you should at or near the top of business/map listings, and hopefully in the AI overviews.
The benefits are more website traffic and thereby free customers. A frequent side benefit is better page usability and site navigation, leading to increased visitor retention and conversion.
What is local SEO?
Local SEO is the same as regular SEO, with an additional emphasis on data about your location. It is vital for brick-and-mortar businesses, especially for mobile users. You should always be in position #1 for your business name plus location, and in the top 5 for most of the important keywords in your business sector and area.
Non-local SEO?
Most of this guide is also relevant to Service Area Businesses (SAB), virtual offices, online stores, etc. Many of the listings will allow (but may complain about) entries with either no address or a defined area of operations. All of the other factors for relevance still apply.
Read more: The Definitive Guide to DIY Local SEO
