I run a small business in my hometown and really want to improve our local SEO. Ive been looking at a few agencies, but Im not sure if I should go with a local company or look for an SEO agency elsewhere that has broader experience. It seems like focusing locally would make sense, but then I worry they might not have as much expertise. Whats better, local knowledge or a company with big-name clients? Would love to hear if anyones had a good experience, especially if youre also running a small business.
I know exactly where youre coming from. Local SEO can be a game-changer, especially for small businesses! When I was searching, I realized that some agencies have SEO in every city expertise, which makes them great for helping businesses like ours stand out in local search results. In my experience, an agency familiar with local trends knows exactly how to get you seen by nearby customers, which is huge for driving actual foot traffic or getting local leads. I went with a regional agency that had a lot of experience with local SEO, and they helped me identify keywords specific to my area, like neighborhoods and events that people search for. Also, they optimized my Google Business Profile and local directories things I hadnt even thought of that ended up bringing in a lot more visibility. Look for an agency that prioritizes local backlinks, too; it shows search engines that your business is trusted by other companies nearby. Just make sure they have good reviews and that they offer data reports so you can track whats actually working. Id suggest starting small and doing a trial month or two before committing longer-term. Local expertise can make all the difference!