Why Businesses Struggle to Catch on to Local SEO Trends

18 March 2025

Why Businesses Struggle to Catch on to Local SEO Trends

Local SEO is one of those things that many businesses know they need. Sadly, only a few businesses seem to get it right. Around 80% of American consumers search online for local businesses weekly, and 32% do it daily. Moreover, 94% of top brands have a local marketing strategy, highlighting the importance of local search engine optimization.

But despite its importance, plenty of businesses fall behind on local SEO trends and, as a result, miss out on valuable traffic, leads, and sales. If you’ve ever wondered why some businesses dominate local search while others remain invisible, it usually comes down to a few key reasons. From outdated strategies to a reluctance to work with experts, let’s break down why local SEO feels so difficult to keep up with.

Ignoring the Power of Google’s Constant Updates

One of the biggest challenges with local SEO is that the rules are always changing. Google tweaks its algorithm all the time, sometimes in minor ways and other times with major overhauls that shake up search rankings overnight. Businesses that don’t stay on top of these changes often find themselves slipping down the search results without even realizing what happened.

For example, Google has placed a stronger emphasis on user experience, prioritizing mobile-friendly websites and fast-loading pages. If your business website is outdated, slow, or difficult to navigate, Google will push you further down in local search rankings.

Local SEO strategies are not just set-it-and-forget. It’s an ongoing process that requires attention, testing, and the willingness to evolve as search trends shift.

Underestimating the Role of Customer Reviews

Many businesses assume that SEO is all about keywords and backlinks, but local SEO relies heavily on what customers have to say about you. When potential customers search for a business like yours, they aren’t just looking for a name and phone number. They’re checking your Google reviews, Yelp ratings, and Facebook recommendations. If you have a handful of outdated or negative reviews, you’re making it easy for potential customers to move on to a competitor.

Encouraging satisfied customers to leave reviews and responding thoughtfully to all feedback signals to Google that your business is active and trustworthy. Ignoring this part of SEO is a fast track to losing potential customers to businesses that take their reputation more seriously.

Not Working with Local SEO Agencies

A lot of businesses try to handle local SEO on their own, which makes sense in theory. After all, how hard can it be to add some keywords and claim your business listing? But the reality is that local SEO is complex, time-consuming, and often frustrating.

Many businesses struggle because they don’t have the time or expertise to stay ahead of SEO trends. And instead of bringing in a professional local SEO agency that specializes in keeping businesses visible in search, they attempt to do it themselves.

Local SEO agencies don’t just sprinkle keywords into your website and call it a day. According to Connection Model, these agencies optimize your entire online presence organically. They understand how search engines interpret location-based searches, which means they can make sure your business appears for the right people in the right areas.

Some businesses hesitate to invest in SEO professionals because they see it as an unnecessary expense. But considering how much business is lost to competitors with better search rankings, working with experts is more of an investment than a cost.

Besides, local SEO agencies also help you navigate competitive business grounds. For instance, the construction industry in Washington is huge, meaning more competition in the sector. Hence, if you’re running a construction business in, let’s say Seattle, Washington, you’d want to rank highly, especially in local searches. If so, you should consider hiring the best Seattle SEO services. If you don’t, you’re leaving your local SEO to chance, meaning you won’t rank as high as other local businesses in your industry.

Focusing on the Wrong Keywords

It’s easy to assume that ranking for broad, high-traffic keywords will bring in more customers. But in local SEO, it’s not about getting the most visitors; it’s about getting the right ones.

Many businesses make the mistake of optimizing their website for generic keywords that don’t reflect local intent. For example, a dentist in Austin might try to rank for “best dentist” instead of “best dentist in Austin” or “family dentist near me.” The problem is that broad keywords attract national or even international searches, which won’t convert into actual local customers. 

Search intent matters. When someone in your city searches for a product or service, they’re looking for businesses near them, not generic content. Ignoring localized keyword strategies means missing out on high-intent searches that could bring in paying customers.

Not Claiming and Optimizing Business Listings

One of the easiest ways to improve local SEO is also one of the most overlooked: claiming and optimizing your business listings. Your business should also be accurately listed on platforms like Yelp. Also, don’t forget to list on Google Maps. After all, 42 percent clicks on Google Map Pack results for local searches.

If your information is inconsistent or missing, search engines get confused, and your rankings suffer. Worse, customers may not trust your business if they see different phone numbers or outdated addresses. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should you do local SEO for your online business?

Yes, local SEO is essential even for online businesses, especially if they serve specific regions. Optimizing for local searches increases visibility in geographic-based queries, helping attract nearby customers. Google Business Profile, localized keywords, and backlinks from regional websites improve search rankings. Even e-commerce stores benefit by targeting local buyers and competing with nearby businesses.

Do physical stores also need SEO?

Yes, physical stores need SEO to increase their online presence and drive foot traffic. Many consumers search for stores, products, and reviews before visiting in person. Local SEO tactics like managing online reviews and using location-specific keywords help attract customers. Without SEO, stores miss potential buyers searching online.

How do search engines rank a website that’s not optimized for SEO rankings?

A website without SEO optimization usually ranks lower in search results due to poor visibility. Search engines prioritize sites with structured content, relevant keywords, and quality backlinks. Without these, the website may struggle to appear for relevant queries. However, user engagement, content quality, and social media presence can still influence rankings to some extent.

Concluding Thoughts

Local SEO is a critical part of making sure your business gets found by the people who matter most. Yet, many businesses struggle because they underestimate how dynamic and competitive local search can be. 

The good news is that local SEO isn’t impossible. With the right strategies, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on local intent, any business can improve its visibility.

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