How to Boost your Google Rankings with Local Backlinks

There are many factors in the Google algorithm when it comes to local results and time-strapped business owners and marketers need to carefully choose where they focus their time and effort when it comes to search engine optimization.  

One of the areas that should be on the radar of local businesses is backlinks.  Backlinks are links to your website from another site.  

WHY BACKLINKS MATTER

Websites with multiple backlinks are signaling to Google that other people find the content valuable.  Backlinks are like a big, virtual, thumbs-up for your business page.  And the more you have, the more potential you have to rank higher on search results.

According to a recent Ahrefs study, 66% of websites don’t have any backlinks which means the door is wide open to build backlinks and boost your site over local competitors.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR BACKLINKS

Wondering if you have any backlinks?  There are several ways to check.  Some of our favorites include:

 

• Ahrefs Backlink Checker

• Moz Link Explorer

• Backlinks

 

HOW TO GET MORE BACKLINKS

If the number of backlinks to your site leaves a bit to be desired, there are some easy ways to take action.

1. Local Organizations - reach out to local organizations like the chamber of commerce, local government board, or tourism association.  Let them know that you’d love to have your business included in their directory or list of local resources and explain why you’re a great fit.

2. Business Associations - if you’re a member of any business associations for your region or industry, be sure you’re listed on their website and take advantage of any other linking opportunities they may offer.

3. Press Coverage - some local press outlets offer business directories on their sites and be sure to send a press release over if you have anything noteworthy to report in your business. 

4. Sponsorships - get involved in your community by sponsoring local family-friendly events like fun-runs or sports leagues.  These activities are always great ways to connect with local parents but should also benefit you with links back to your website.

5. Local Blogs - reach out to local bloggers, especially those who do posts about local businesses or things to do with families and kids in your area. They might be willing to add you to an existing list or post or even create new content about your offerings.

And remember, building backlinks is an ongoing process, not a “one and done.”  Most local businesses will be well-positioned if they have just a few high-quality backlinks.  Focus on quality not quantity here to help boost your search result rankings.