Simple Local SEO for Week One: The Basics That Actually Matter

Local SEO can feel like a rabbit hole. In week one, you don’t need advanced tactics - you need the fundamentals that help people in your area find you and trust you.

This guide is intentionally simple and focused on setup tasks you can complete quickly.

1) Create or Claim Your Business Profile

If you serve local customers, having an accurate business profile is table stakes.

• Create/claim your profile (start here: https://google.com/business)
• Verify ownership if required
• Ensure the category matches what you actually do
• Add service areas, hours, and contact details

2) Make Your NAP Consistent

NAP = Name, Address, Phone.

Pick one canonical version and use it everywhere (website, profiles, invoices, directories). Inconsistency makes it harder for platforms to trust your details.

3) Put the Basics on Your Website

Even a simple site should include:

• what you do (clear, specific)
• who it’s for (service area and customer type)
• how to contact you (click-to-call, email, form)
• your service area and hours (if relevant)

4) Start Collecting Real Reviews (Ethically)

Reviews help people trust you. Keep it honest:

• ask satisfied customers for feedback
• make it easy (one link)
• don’t fabricate reviews or incentives that violate platform rules
• respond to reviews professionally

5) Track Inquiries (So You Know What Works)

Week one tracking can be simple:

• a spreadsheet of inquiries (date, source, outcome)
• basic analytics on your site
• a dedicated phone number or email alias if you want clearer attribution

A Week-One Checklist

• Business profile created/claimed and accurate
• NAP consistent across website and profiles
• Website includes services, service area, contact info
• First review request process drafted
• Simple inquiry tracking in place

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