Local SEO Tips for Service-Based Businesses

Introduction  

If you run a local service business—like a salon, law office, or coaching practice—local  SEO is your best friend.  

Done right, it helps your business show up when someone nearby searches “best [your  service] near me.”  

This guide gives you the tactical steps to dominate your local search results and get  found by the people already looking for you.  

Step 1: Set Up and Optimize Your Google Business Profile  

Go to google.com/business and:  

• Claim your listing  

• Add accurate business name, address, and phone (NAP)  

• Upload high-quality photos  

• Select the correct categories  

• Add service descriptions and hours  

Update weekly with new posts and photos for better visibility.  

Step 2: Use Location-Based Keywords  

Examples:  

• “family lawyer Ottawa”  

• “interior designer Toronto” 

• “personal trainer in Vancouver”  

Place them in:  

• Homepage title and H1  

• Service pages  

• Meta descriptions  

• Image alt text  

Step 3: Create Location-Specific Pages  

If you serve multiple cities or neighborhoods, create a dedicated landing page for each.  

“SEO Services in Ottawa”  

“Marketing for Therapists in Toronto”  

Each page should be unique, not copy-pasted.  

Step 4: Get Local Backlinks  

Reach out to:  

• Local business directories  

• Chamber of commerce listings  

• Partner businesses  

• Community news blogs  

Google values hyper-local links more than generic ones. 

Step 5: Ask for Google Reviews (and Respond)  

The more quality reviews you have, the more trust Google and users give you.  Tips:  

• Ask clients right after a service  

• Send a direct link  

• Respond to every review with a thank-you and keywords if possible  

Step 6: Embed a Google Map on Your Contact Page  

Helps users and search engines verify your location. Make sure it matches the address  in your Google profile.  

Step 7: Ensure Mobile-Friendliness + Speed  

Most local searches happen on mobile. Make sure your site:  

• Loads in under 3 seconds  

• Has click-to-call buttons  

• Is easy to navigate with a thumb  

Conclusion  

You don’t need a massive SEO budget to dominate local results—you just need a few  key tactics done right.  

Implement these tips, stay consistent, and watch your business show up on Page 1  when local clients need you most. 

Follow @carlamariabruno and @ottawareels 

�� contact@carlamariabruno.com for more information