When you mention SEO around someone the mind can shift to very general and broad ideas. Just increase that Google PageRank, supplement it with good Yahoo standings and you're in like flint, right?

Well, not to discredit page rank (because it would be silly of me to do so) but there's more to healthy SEO than just bowing down to the Google gods. There are numerous aspects to focus on, but today let's tackle local search.

Granted, local search isn't important for everyone. If you own a business that ships worldwide, then that's where your focus should be. If you're selling goods or services with a distinct regional flavor then local search should be your primary focus.

I find the first, and sometimes most important step is to have your business listed on Google Maps. It doesn't take long to do, and your page traffic can increase dramatically in some cases. Then, you can of course post ads on Google Maps as well.

The idea of regional focus is the key in deciding upon if local search is a key for business. For example here in Lexington, Ky - horse farms are a big part of the region. So, for my Google Maps search I type in 'lexington horse farm', and the top result is Empire Stud. Mating Services? Is that legal? Take this idea and use it for wherever you reside.

I think I'm going to break this editor's note down into a two parter. There's much more with local search I want to discuss, so I think I'll have a conclusion tomorrow. So look forward to that... ;)

The ideas presented in the WebProWorld newsletter editor's note do not reflect the thoughts, and ideas of the WebProWorld community.

| JohnnyV |