Launching a new website for your Durham business is exciting—it’s like opening your storefront to the entire internet! But just having a website isn’t enough. To attract customers, you need to make sure they can find you when they search online. That’s where local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) comes in. Local SEO helps your website rank higher for searches in your area, like "best coffee shop in Durham" or "local Durham web designer." Here’s how you can give your brand-new site a boost and make sure it stands out in the Bull City.

1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

One of the quickest ways to improve your local SEO is by creating or claiming your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). This free tool is essential for helping Durham customers find your business on Google Maps and in local search results.

2. Include Local Keywords on Your Website

Your website’s content should include keywords that reflect both your services and your location. This makes it easier for search engines to match your site with people looking for businesses in Durham.

3. Build Local Backlinks

Backlinks—links from other websites to yours—are a critical factor in SEO. Earning backlinks from trusted local websites can significantly improve your local search ranking.

4. Ensure Mobile Friendliness

Durham customers are often on the go, whether grabbing a bite near the American Tobacco Campus or hiking at Duke Forest. That means they’re likely searching for businesses on their smartphones. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you risk losing those potential customers.

5. Create Location Pages for Multiple Areas

If your Durham business serves more than one neighborhood or nearby towns, consider creating separate location pages to optimize for those areas.

6. Leverage Social Media for Local Signals

Social media activity can indirectly boost your local SEO. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are essential for engaging with Durham customers and driving traffic to your site.

7. Monitor Your Results

SEO isn’t a one-and-done effort—it’s an ongoing process. Use tools like Google Analytics or platforms like BrightLocal to track your site’s performance and see how your local SEO efforts are paying off.

Final Thoughts

Durham is a city that values community and innovation, and your business’s online presence should reflect that. By focusing on local SEO, you can make sure your new website connects with the Bull City audience and grows your business. Whether you’re a new restaurant opening on Main Street or a startup in the RTP, these tips will help you get noticed by the right people.

SEO might seem like a lot to handle, but with time and effort, it can make all the difference. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, you can always turn to a local expert for help—someone who knows Durham as well as they know SEO. 😊