Local SEO Basics: How to Get Found in Your Suburb

Why Local SEO Matters
When someone searches for a café, plumber or shop, they usually type 'near me' into Google along with whatever they are searching for. If your business does not appear in those results, you are missing a steady stream of local customers. That is where local SEO comes in. Local SEO is the process of making sure your business appears when people in your area search for your services. It is one of the most effective ways to attract nearby customers without relying heavily on ads.

Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is the foundation of local SEO. This listing shows up in Google Maps and the Local Pack. To take advantage of it, make sure you claim your profile and fill in every detail including:

• Business name, address and phone number

• Opening hours

• Services or products

• Photos of your shop or work

Encourage happy customers to leave reviews because positive ratings increase your chances of appearing at the top of results. The more complete and active your profile is, the more likely Google will show it to people in your area.

Use Local Keywords on Your Website
If you want your website to rank locally, it must include suburb or region specific terms. Instead of saying “we offer plumbing services,” say “we offer plumbing services in North Brisbane and Caboolture” Include your suburb in page titles, headings and meta descriptions. For example:

• “Café in Maleny – Fresh Coffee and Local Flavour”

• “Electrician Caboolture – Reliable 24/7 Service”

This helps both customers and Google understand where you operate and makes it easier for you to show up in the right searches.

Keep Your Information Consistent
Google checks your business details across the web. If your name, address or phone number appear differently in multiple places, it creates confusion. Ensure your information is consistent on your website, Google Business Profile and online directories. Even small variations such as using “Street” in one place and “St” in another can impact your ranking. Consistency shows Google and customers that your business is reliable.

Collect and Showcase Reviews
Reviews are a major signal for local SEO. People often choose the business with the strongest ratings when comparing options. Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on Google and feature them on your website. Respond to reviews as well, even if it is just a quick thank you. This keeps your profile active, demonstrates customer care and builds credibility.

Create Local Content
Fresh and relevant content helps improve your search ranking. Creating blog posts or updates about your suburb signals to Google that your site is valuable. For example, a café might publish “Best Breakfast Spots in Caboolture,” while a landscaper could post “Spring Lawn Care Tips for Maleny Homes.” This type of content not only boosts your visibility but also positions your business as a trusted local expert.

The Bottom Line
Local SEO is about making it easy for people in your suburb to find and trust your business. By optimising your Google Business Profile, using local keywords, maintaining consistent information, collecting reviews and creating local content, you increase your chances of climbing the rankings.

If your business is not showing up in local searches, you are leaving money on the table. The good news is that with the right local SEO strategy you can change that and attract more customers in your area.

Check out our website packages today and see how easy it is to put your business in front of more local customers.