Do Backlinks Matter for Local Marketing?
If you have gone down the rabbit hole of search engine optimization (SEO) and are considering buying backlinks or wonder if backlinks will actually help you grow your business, in this blog post we will discuss if backlinks really matter for local marketing.
What are Backlinks?
Before we dive deeper into how important backlinks are for local marketing, let’s establish what backlinks are. Backlinks, also known as inbound links or incoming links, are hyperlinks from one website to another. They serve as a way for users to navigate between different websites on the internet and also play a crucial role in search engine optimization (SEO).
For example, as a small carpet cleaning business, it may take time for Google to trust your website. However, a backlink (link from their site to yours) from a prominent website like Forbes, CNBC, etc. would show Google that they trust you, so Google should trust you and move you up in their rankings. In a snapshot, that is what a backlink is.
The Role of Backlinks in Local Marketing
Now, let’s address the core question: Do backlinks matter for local marketing? The short answer is yes, but it is not going to move the needle much to actually get leads.
Enhanced Search Engine Visibility
Backlinks are a major factor that search engines consider when ranking websites. In the context of local marketing, having high-quality backlinks can significantly boost a business’s visibility in local search results. When your website is linked to from reputable local directories, news sites, or other relevant sources, search engines interpret this as a sign of trustworthiness and relevance.
Building Authority and Trust
Local businesses often struggle to establish authority and trust in their communities. Backlinks can be a powerful tool in this regard. When other websites link to your local business website, it implies a level of trust and credibility. This can be especially beneficial when local influencers, bloggers, or news outlets endorse your business through backlinks.
Targeted Traffic
Backlinks not only improve your search engine rankings but also drive targeted traffic to your website. When you have backlinks from local directories and websites, you are more likely to attract visitors who are interested in your specific products or services. This targeted traffic can lead to higher conversion rates and increased sales for your local business.
Backlinks Will Not Get You More Customers
This is very important! If you buy “high authority” backlinks, this may boost your domain authority and “increase your website organic rankings, however, it does not matter as much as you think.
Yes, it sounds good, however organic website rankings for local marketing are 4th on the search engine results page. This means prospects would have to scroll past 3 other parts of Google just to see your local website.
- Google Local Service Ads
- Google Search Ads
- Local Map Pack
- Website Organic Rankings (what backlinks help)
Also, if you buy backlinks the traffic coming into your site will not be local traffic you want anyways. A better use of time would be focusing on your Google Business Profile and generating more reviews.
Strategies for Effective Backlink Building in Local Marketing
Moral of the above…don’t buy backlinks. If you still want backlinks, let’s explore some strategies to effectively build and leverage them:
1. Local Directories
Start by ensuring that your business is listed in reputable local directories like Google My Business, Yelp, and Yellow Pages. These directories often provide opportunities to include backlinks to your website.
2. Guest Blogging
Collaborate with local bloggers or relevant websites in your niche to create guest posts. In exchange for valuable content, you can secure backlinks to your website within the guest post.
3. Sponsorships and Partnerships
Consider sponsoring local events or partnering with complementary local businesses. These partnerships can lead to valuable backlinks from event websites or your partners’ websites.
4. Content Marketing
Create high-quality, informative content that is relevant to your local audience. When your content is valuable, other websites and blogs are more likely to reference it and link back to your website as a source.
Do Backlinks Matter For Local Marketing?
If done correctly, local backlinks can increase site traffic and boost rankings, however many people want to buy backlinks and think it will get them more customers…it wont. If you are trying to figure out local marketing and want a real game plan that grows businesses 20%+ consistently, let Phlash Consulting complete a free marketing audit and put together a game plan for your specific business.
5 Backlink FAQs
Q1: Can I buy backlinks for my local business website?
A: It’s not advisable to buy backlinks, as search engines may penalize your website for unnatural link-building practices. Focus on organic and legitimate ways to acquire backlinks.
Q2: How long does it take to see the effects of backlinks on local SEO?
A: The impact of backlinks on local SEO can vary, but you may start seeing improvements in search engine rankings and traffic within a few months of implementing a solid backlink strategy.
Q3: Are social media links considered backlinks?
A: Social media links are not traditional backlinks, but they can still drive traffic to your website. Focus on both social media engagement and traditional backlink building for a well-rounded marketing strategy.