If you’re not already familiar with SEO, then you’re probably even further behind on your local SEO. What is local SEO? Search engine optimization strategies are used to help websites rank higher in search engine results pages, and the local part just means the results are tailored to a certain geographic area. There are a number different tactics that local SEO experts use, but some people tend to forget the role that a website plays in local SEO. Here are a few ways to use your website to raise your local rankings.

1. Choose the right domain name.
These efforts should begin from the start of the website. The first thing you should do is choose an available domain name that suits your business. It should include the type of business you have and where your business is located. The more your business’s name is like the type of business that it is, the better. If you own a bakery, “So and So’s Bakery” is going to make a well-optimized name and domain name as well.

2. Optimize your website.
At this point, it goes without saying that your website should be optimized to begin with, but you should also make sure you’re doing what you can for local. Page titles should use keywords and the content should as well. Another important part of optimizing your website for local, however, is ensuring that your business’s NAP — name, address, and phone number — appear not just on the home page of your website, but on every page.

3. Make it social.
Of course social efforts often take place on other sites, like Facebook and Twitter, but there’s no reason — or rather no excuse — not to make those pages accessible by linking to them somewhere on your business’s website. Driving customers to your social networks and making connections there will also help your website rank higher in the local results.

Do you use any of these tips for improving your local SEO strategies? Feel free to share your thoughts and experience with us in the comments section below.