Struggling to rank on Google? The real problem might not be something that you think!
Before you get carried away, check these indicators:
- Your website looks great!
- Your products or services are top-notch!
Then why do your competitors keep showing up higher on Google?
The frustration is real and it’s completely understandable. But the main pitfall is that some businesses think that in order to get the most visibility, they need keyword stuffing or running ads. Little did they realize that real success comes from thoughtfulness and proven strategy.
The situation even gets worse when most double down only on traditional SEO or on local SEO. They don’t realize that the best results come from balancing both.
If you’re trying to get more local customers while also building a brand that stands out nationwide or even globally, it’s time to clear this confusion. Let’s dissect it today and get into what is local SEO, how it compares to traditional SEO, and when to use each to drive real business growth.
But before we get into the nitty-gritty of local vs traditional SEO, let’s brush up on the basics of Search Engine Optimization.
What is SEO?
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is a part of digital marketing that helps websites rank higher on search engines like Google. Just like other marketing efforts focus on visibility, SEO makes a website more attractive to search engines. A higher ranking means more visitors, which leads to more customers. As of January 2025, Google controlled about 89.62% of global searches. If a business isn’t showing up on Google, it’s missing out on nearly all potential search traffic.
Search engines use complex algorithms to decide which websites show up first – criteria? It’s based on which website holds more valuable content and resources for its audience. SEO works by understanding these algorithms and applying strategies that make a website more relevant, useful, and easy to find. This includes optimizing content, using the right keywords, improving technical performance, and building a strong online presence.
Here are the 4 pillars of SEO that every business should Know:
1. Keyword Research
It’s where you find what people search for!
Keywords tell search engines what your business is about. Traditional SEO targets broader terms, while local SEO focuses on location-based phrases like “local SEO services“ or “best coffee shop near me.“
Example:
A bakery in New York wants to rank for “custom cakes.” Traditional SEO would aim for “best custom cakes,” while local SEO would target “best custom cakes in New York.”
2. On-Page SEO
Where you optimize your website.
This includes adding keywords, structuring content properly, and using internal linking. For example, pages should link to relevant services, like a Harrisburg SEO page linking to related marketing services. Also, it’s not just about the core SEO-related detailing, in order to make your on-page SEO efforts convert, you need to focus on UI and UX as well.
3. Off-Page SEO
This pillar alone can build stronger authority!
Search engines trust websites with strong backlinks – from those websites that are already trustworthy. Off-page SEO revolves around getting links from other reputable websites related to your niche. Local businesses also benefit from local citations. These are the mentions of their business name, address, and phone number on directories like Yelp and Google My Business.
4. Technical SEO
To make sure your website runs smoothly.
Why would Google rank a website that keeps disappointing its visitors with leggy pages, and takes an eternity to load? To get the algorithm’s favor, you need to make sure about fast-loading pages, mobile-friendly design, and structured data. All these aspects help search engines understand and rank your site. A well-optimized site improves both traditional SEO and local SEO results.
Now, here is the real ‘meat’ of this article. The Real Debate:
Traditional vs. Local SEO
Now, we have a sound understanding now about SEO and how websites rank on search engines like Google. However, not all SEO is the same, as each custom-tailor SEO strategy targets a certain demographic.
Traditional SEO
This is where you target a national or even international audience. It helps businesses rank for broad, competitive keywords. It’s great for e-commerce, blogs, and businesses that serve customers beyond a specific city or an area. Most e-commerce SEO, for instance, uses this approach to attract shoppers nationwide.
Local SEO
Local SEO focuses on getting businesses seen in specific locations. It’s ideal for brick-and-mortar stores, restaurants, service providers, and businesses that rely on local customers. Glendale SEO and Harrisburg SEO are good examples of location-based strategies that boost businesses in those cities. It targets more of the local internet keywords to target the audience searching for nearby solutions on search engines.
None of these SEOs can be held less valuable compared to others or we can prioritize one over the other as both are important. But depending on your business, one might matter more than the other – or you might need both.
When to Focus on Local SEO?
If your business serves a specific location, local SEO services are a must. Here’s when local SEO makes the biggest impact.
- You have a physical store or office. Google Business Profile helps customers find you easily.
- You target local customers. A dentist in Miami doesn’t need nationwide visibility—just local patients searching for the “best dentist in Miami.”
- You want more foot traffic. Most people who search for a business nearby visit within 24 hours.
- Your competitors are already ranking. If they show up before you in “near me” searches, they’re getting your customers.
A well-rounded local SEO strategy makes a business more visible and more trusted in its area. Here is an actionable plan that you need to focus on:
1- Claim and Optimize Local Listings
A business needs to show up where people search. Google Business Profile is the most powerful listing, but other platforms like Yelp and Bing Places also help. Every profile should have accurate details, high-quality images, and a compelling description.
2- Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews
Local reviews build trust and influence rankings. Happy customers should be encouraged to leave feedback on Google and other review sites. A quick, thoughtful response to every review—good or bad—shows credibility and improves engagement.
3- Use Local Keywords in the Smart Way
People search differently when looking for local businesses. Instead of broad terms, they include locations like “best coffee shop in Glendale.” Website content, headings, and metadata should naturally include these local phrases without overstuffing.
4- Create Location-Specific Website Content
A business serving multiple areas benefits from location-based landing pages. Content should speak to local audiences, mentioning landmarks, neighborhoods, or city-specific problems the business solves.
5- Keep Contact Information Consistent Everywhere
Business name, address, and phone number (NAP) must match across the website and all local directories. Any inconsistency confuses search engines and potential customers, lowering trust and rankings.
6- Earn Backlinks from Local Sources
Search engines favor websites with strong local connections. Partnering with community blogs, local news sites, and industry directories boosts credibility. Guest posts, sponsorships, and collaborations with nearby businesses help secure these valuable links.
When to Use Both Traditional and Local SEO?
Some businesses benefit from both traditional and local SEO. Examples include:
- Local service providers expanding nationally
A home cleaning company in Texas might dominate “house cleaning services Dallas” but also want visibility for “best house cleaning services USA.” - E-commerce businesses with physical stores
A brand like Nike sells online but also has local stores. Their strategy mixes E-commerce SEO with local SEO strategies to rank for both. - B2B companies with regional and global clients
An SEO agency might offer Glendale SEO and Harrisburg SEO services while also ranking for national searches like “best SEO agency in the USA.”
Conclusion:
SEO isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re targeting local customers, prioritize local SEO strategies like optimizing your Google Business Profile, getting local backlinks, and using location-based keywords. If your goal is to attract customers from across the country or worldwide, focus on traditional SEO with high-quality content, strong backlinks, and technical optimization. In order to get the best results, you need to use both strategically. Businesses that rank high locally and nationally win in the long run.
