What is local SEO?

Local SEO is the work of getting your business found for searches with local intent — "accountant near me", "plumber Newcastle" — and into the map pack, the block of three businesses Google shows above the normal results. For most small businesses with a physical location or a service area it drives more new customers than anything else, because those searchers are ready to buy. Three things do most of the work:

• A claimed, complete Google Business Profile — the single biggest local ranking factor
• Consistent name, address and phone (NAP) across your website and directories
• Genuine customer reviews, responded to

Unlike broad SEO, local SEO is winnable quickly for a small business, because you are competing with other local businesses rather than national brands. If you serve a local area, claiming and completing your Google Business Profile is the highest-return hour you will spend on getting found.