Keyword research can help show you how to guide local customers straight to your business.
If you know how to do keyword research for local business, you can focus on the language your audience uses, you can create connections that matter, and build trust with the people searching for what you offer.
This discovery process is an important first step in your custom marketing roadmap and keyword strategy.
Let’s explore how to do keyword research for your local business and answer key questions to help you get started.
Why Does Keyword Research Matter for Local Businesses?
Local keyword research isn’t just about ranking in search engines; it’s about serving your community better.
Imagine running a coffee shop. Instead of generic searches like “coffee shop,” potential customers might look for “best coffee near [your city]” or “coffee shops open late near me.”
Researching the right local keywords makes sure you’re part of these conversations, driving real traffic and meaningful engagement.
How to Discover Local Keywords
Finding local keywords starts with understanding your audience.
Think of it as active listening – tuning into what people are searching for and meeting them where they are.
1. Start with Your Services and Add Local Context
List what you offer and combine it with local-specific terms.
For example:
- “Emergency plumbing in Chicago”
- “Wedding photographers near Atlanta Botanical Gardens”
Adding local modifiers like city names or neighborhoods lets search engines—and customers—know where you are and what you do.
2. Use Tools for Deeper Insights
Leverage tools like Google Autocomplete, Google Keyword Planner, and SEMrush to refine your list.
For instance:
- Use Autocomplete to see what phrases people type alongside your service.
- Search for related terms or questions like “keto diet recipes” to uncover trends and intent.
These tools show search volume and help you identify phrases your audience already uses which makes it more organized for you to to do keyword research for blog posts.
How Can You Analyze Competitors for Keyword Ideas?
Competitors often leave breadcrumbs that you can use to improve your approach.
Look at Their Content
Review competitors’ blogs, websites, and Google Business Profiles.
If a competitor ranks for “affordable pet care in Dallas,” you can adapt and refine this keyword to suit your business.
Use Competitive Tools
Tools like Ahrefs or Ubersuggest reveal which keywords drive the most traffic for your competitors.
Think of this as brainstorming with an edge – learning what works so you can serve your audience better.
How Do You Map Keywords to Your Content?
Organizing your keywords effectively is like designing a store layout – each page should have a clear purpose.
Create Dedicated Pages for Each Service
A local handyman might include:
- “Drywall repair in [City]”
- “Bathroom remodeling services near [Neighborhood]”
Blog About Related Topics
Blogs are the perfect place for long-tail keywords like “how to cook keto recipes for people over 40.”
Knowing how to research keywords about niche topics allows you to address specific customer questions while building your authority online.
Wrapping Up
Keyword research for local businesses is about more than search rankings; it’s about understanding and serving your community.
The process of discovery, whether through customer conversations or SEO tools, gives you the foundation to grow your business with purpose.
Your local keywords create a roadmap to success, connecting your services to the people who need them most.
As you refine your strategy, remember to act boldly – fly the plane and adapt along the way.