The local SEO playbook that worked in 2022 needs updates. Google has shifted weight toward reviews, mobile experience, and behavioral signals. Businesses that ranked comfortably two years ago are watching newer competitors overtake them.
The data reinforces the urgency: 70 to 80 percent of consumers research a business online before visiting in person.
Citation building is the process of listing a business in online directories with consistent information. Google cross-references these listings to verify business legitimacy. Inconsistencies, such as a different phone number on Yelp than on the website, erode trust signals.
Local SEO starts with three foundational elements: a claimed and optimized Google Business Profile, consistent NAP (name, address, phone) across all online directories, and a website with location-specific content. Without all three, ranking in local results is unlikely.
Sioux Falls-based LocalSurge combines web design, SEO, and AI automation to help local businesses attract and convert more customers online.
Voice search queries tend to be longer and more conversational than typed searches. A typed search might be “dentist Sioux Falls” while a voice search might be “who is the best dentist near me that is open on Saturdays.” Content that answers these natural-language questions performs better.
Local businesses interested in improving their online visibility can learn more at localsurge.co.