Google Local

Google and the other search engines use special local algorithms to identify user searches for local products and services and search results are returned to the user in a search results page with a special local format.  For example, if you search Google for “pizza” or “doctor” using your computer,  Google will determine your location using the Internet Protocol (IP) address associated with your Internet services provider.  You don’t have to search for “pizza Plano” because Google assumes that a search for pizza is a search for a local pizza restaurant.  With a search for “doctor,” Google and Bing assume that you’re looking for a local doctor, not researching how to become a doctor.

If you use a smart phone or a tablet, the search engines can often determine your location, and that location is tied to your search phrase to give you search results tailored for your location.

The results from a local search for “air conditioning repair” will look something like this.  Note that Google assumed that the search was for “air conditioning repair Dallas” based on the IP address of the computer in use.

Success in local organic results comes from a search engine optimization (SEO) strategy for your website, and strategies for local social media and local business listings too.  The larger and more competitive your market area and business sector, the more it will likely cost you to be successful.