By Clint Sanchez · Published · Updated · 4 min read
Quick answer
The local SEO strategies that still work in 2024 are customer reviews, a complete and correctly categorized Google Business Profile, listings on the major directories, locally relevant on-site content, keyword research built on search intent, technical basics like mobile optimization and fast loading, consistently published quality content, a few high-quality backlinks instead of many weak ones, service area pages with unique content, and schema markup for click-through rate rather than rankings.
Key takeaways
- Customer reviews remain a cornerstone of local SEO, and encouraging satisfied customers to leave them still moves rankings.
- Directory listings matter less than they did, but Google Business Profile, Yelp, and Bing Places are still worth completing.
- Keyword research is still fundamental; the shift is toward search intent and terms you can realistically rank for.
- Google's link spam updates reduced junk backlinks to near zero value, while one link from a respected publication can trigger more.
- Service area pages work only with engaging, unique content; otherwise Google treats them as doorway pages.
- Schema markup has less than 1% direct ranking influence but can raise click-through rates by improving how results display.
- Keywords in header tags and URLs have lost importance; page speed, SSL, mobile-friendliness, and content quality have not.
In the Baton Rouge market the March 2024 update hit the businesses running a dozen near-identical city pages for Denham Springs, Walker, Prairieville, and Zachary hardest. The service area page still works here, but only when it says something true about that town: the flood zone, the subdivision, the parish permit. A single Google Business Profile with real reviews now outranks most of those page farms.
The landscape of SEO is constantly evolving, and with recent updates from Google, it’s important to adapt strategies to remain effective. After a significant pause following the March update, many SEO professionals are re-evaluating what tactics are still valuable. This blog post explores current Local SEO strategies that still yield results and highlights those that may no longer be as impactful.
Local SEO: Still a Strong Contender
Reviews: Customer reviews remain a cornerstone of local SEO. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews can significantly boost your local search rankings.
Directory Listings: While less influential than they once were, major directory listings are still worth the effort. Focus on the big ones like Google Business Profile (GBP), Yelp, and Bing Places.
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GBP Optimization: Proper formatting, accurate category selection, and complete profiles are important. A well-optimized GBP profile can drive local traffic and improve visibility.
On-Site Content: Your content must reflect local relevance. Make sure that your website’s content speaks to your local audience’s needs and interests.
Keyword Research: The Foundation of SEO
Despite changes in the SEO landscape, keyword research remains critical. Building content around terms people actively search for and those you can realistically rank for is fundamental. While the emphasis on keywords has shifted slightly, understanding search intent and targeting appropriate keywords is still a winning strategy.
Technical SEO: Essential Yet Foundational
Technical SEO tasks, while often seen as a one-time effort, are still essential. These include:
- Proper site architecture
- Mobile optimization
- Fast loading speeds
- Secure website (SSL)
Implementing these correctly during the development phase can set a strong foundation for SEO success.
Content Creation: King with a Caveat
Content is still king, but with a twist. Google’s algorithm favors websites that consistently publish engaging, high-quality content. This can help attract natural backlinks and establish niche expertise. However, with the influx of AI-generated content, creating unique, valuable content that stands out is more important than ever. You should be cautious when using automated tools for anything beyond drafts. You can learn why AI-generated websites hurt your business in our full breakdown. Businesses should consider if investing in professional content or allocating a budget towards Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising is more effective for their goals.
Customer reviews remain a cornerstone of local SEO, and encouraging satisfied customers to leave them still moves rankings.
On-Page SEO: Evolving Priorities
While some on-page SEO elements like keywords in header tags and URLs have diminished in importance, other factors remain important:
- Page Speed: Ensures a good user experience.
- SSL: Boosts site security and trustworthiness.
- Mobile-Friendliness: Essential for ranking and user experience.
- Content Quality: The content itself is paramount, with keyword stuffing being a tactic of the past. Focus on creating valuable, well-written content.
Backlinks: Quality Over Quantity
Backlinks continue to play a role, though their impact has changed. Quality backlinks from reputable sources are more valuable than numerous low-quality ones. Google’s link spam updates have reduced the effectiveness of junk backlinks, emphasizing the need for genuine, high-quality links. A single high-quality backlink can lead to a surge in additional backlinks, particularly from a respected publication.
Service Area Pages: Potential but Challenging
Service area pages can be effective but require engaging, unique content to avoid being seen as doorway pages. Success with this strategy often depends on the strength of your website’s ranking signals. For a practical example, see how trash can cleaning service area pages can use city context, service proof, FAQs, and internal links without becoming doorway pages.
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Schema Markup: Limited but Strategic
While schema markup has minimal direct impact on rankings (less than 1% influence), it can help increase click-through rates (CTR) by improving search result visibility. It’s beneficial for product-based sites but less critical for others.
The Role of Accessibility
Improving website accessibility benefits users and may become a more significant ranking factor. Ensuring your website is accessible can enhance user experience and improve SEO performance.
Navigating the Future of SEO: Adapt and Thrive
SEO in 2024 requires a balanced approach, focusing on foundational elements and evolving strategies. High-quality content, genuine backlinks, and a well-optimized local presence remain important. By staying informed and adaptable, SEO professionals can continue to drive success for their clients in this ever-changing landscape.
At BlakSheep Creative, we understand the complexities of SEO and are committed to helping businesses like yours stay ahead of the curve. Our tailored SEO services are designed to enhance your online presence, drive traffic, and boost your rankings.
Ready to take your SEO strategy to the next level? Contact BlakSheep Creative today and let our team of experts help you navigate the future of SEO with confidence and success. Fill our the form below to start your path toward better rankings and increased visibility!
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About the author
Founder & Lead Developer · Denham Springs, LA
Clint has built and marketed websites for 26 years, since founding BlakSheep Creative in 2000. He is also a 29-year firefighter and a 23-year member of IAFF Local 557, which is where the bias toward plain answers over sales copy comes from.
- Veteran-owned
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Common Questions About Local SEO Strategies
Short answers to the questions that come up most on this topic.
Which local SEO tactic gives the best return in 2024?
Are directory listings still worth doing for local SEO?
Do backlinks still matter for local SEO after Google's spam updates?
Are service area pages still a good idea?
Does schema markup improve local rankings?
Should a local business use AI to write its content?
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