Welcome to the second chapter, in the two part series about local SEO. Yesterday, I mentioned that a good starting point when conducting loca SEO is Google Maps. Now, we move on to the second step...

So you've added your site or business to Google Maps, now where to go? Well this is where it can get tough. Certainly you should spruce up your website with local based keywords. Some simple things you can add: an address in your footer on all pages, quick access for directions to your store, write about local culture if you have a blog.

After localizing your actual site, it's on to link building. Here's where you want to be careful. Your first, and primary focus will be to add your site to local directories. If you talk to certain people, directory can be a nasty word. There's good reason for that, as there are plenty of 'spammy' directories out there. When you are researching a directory, do a clean sweep of the different categories they offer. Make sure automotive based businesses is all they have listed under that category. This gives you a good indication of the integrity of the site.

Something you should be doing for your business, online and off is becoming involved in your community. Whether you live in a small town, or city people tend to attach themselves to where they are. If customers know a business is involved in their area then it adds a sense of belonging. For creating a community presence online you have a few options. Having some type of blog not only helps with SEO like I mentioned, but establishes credibility with your users. Next you can find other sites to exchange links with which is the more traditional method. Nothing wrong with that. Then get into the upstart world of social media. Facebook, Twitter and others have established local communities within their sites. Get in good with them and you have the potential to have a powerful, and focused following.

That concludes the local SEO series. I hope I was able to provide some pointers for getting started. As always, feel free to email me or drop a topic down in the forums. Have a great weekend!

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

| JohnnyV |