What is Local Business Schema?
Local Business Schema is a type of structured data markup that you add to your website’s code. It provides search engines like Google with detailed information about your business, such as your name, address, phone number, operating hours, and the type of services you offer. This structured data helps search engines better understand your business and display relevant information in search results.
Think of it as a way to “introduce” your business to search engines in a language they understand. It’s particularly useful for businesses that serve specific geographic areas, as it helps them appear in local search results and Google’s Local Pack.
What Are the Benefits of Local Business Schema?
Implementing Local Business Schema offers several key advantages for your website and business:
1. Improves Local Search Rankings
Local Business Schema helps your website rank higher in local search results. When someone searches for services or products in your area (e.g., “web design services in Cape Town”), Google uses this structured data to display relevant local businesses.
2. Enhances Visibility with Rich Snippets
With Local Business Schema, your business can appear in rich snippets—enhanced search results that show extra details like your address, phone number, operating hours, and even customer reviews. These snippets make your listing more attractive and informative, increasing the likelihood of clicks.
3. Builds Trust with Customers
By providing accurate and detailed information, you build trust with potential customers. They can quickly see your location, contact details, and other key information, making it easier for them to decide to engage with you.
4. Supports Voice Search
With the rise of voice-activated assistants like Google Assistant and Siri, more people are using voice search to find local businesses. Local Business Schema helps search engines provide accurate answers to queries like, “Where’s the nearest plumber?” or “What’s the phone number for a web design company in Johannesburg?”
5. Gives You a Competitive Edge
Many businesses don’t use structured data like Local Business Schema. By implementing it, you gain a competitive advantage in local search results, making your business stand out from others in your area.
How to Implement Local Business Schema
Adding Local Business Schema to your website doesn’t require advanced coding skills. Here are some easy ways to implement it:
1. Use Plugins (For WordPress Websites)
If your website is built on WordPress, you can use plugins to add Local Business Schema without touching a line of code. Some popular free plugins include:
- Rank Math SEO: This all-in-one SEO plugin includes a schema markup feature that makes it easy to add Local Business Schema.
- Schema & Structured Data for WP & AMP: A user-friendly plugin that allows you to add structured data, including Local Business Schema, with just a few clicks.
- WP SEO Structured Data Schema: Another plugin that supports Local Business Schema and other types of structured data.
Our preference is the Rank Math plugin which we use on our WordPress SEO Training Course
2. Use Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper
Google provides a free tool called the Structured Data Markup Helper. It guides you through the process of adding schema markup to your website. Once you’ve generated the code, you can add it to your site’s HTML.
3. Hire a Professional
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can hire a web developer or SEO specialist to implement Local Business Schema for you. This ensures it’s done correctly and efficiently.
How to Check if Local Business Schema Has Been Implemented
Once you’ve added Local Business Schema to your website, it’s important to verify that it’s working correctly. Here’s how you can check:
1. Use Google’s Rich Results Test Tool
Google’s Rich Results Test Tool allows you to enter your website’s URL or paste your code to see if the schema markup has been implemented correctly. It will show you any errors or warnings that need to be fixed.
2. Check Google Search Console
If you’ve submitted your sitemap to Google Search Console, you can check the Enhancements section to see if your Local Business Schema is being recognised. This tool also provides insights into how your website is performing in search results.
3. Look for Rich Snippets in Search Results
Search for your business on Google and see if your listing includes rich snippets like your address, phone number, and operating hours. If these details appear, your Local Business Schema is working.
Conclusion
Local Business Schema is a powerful tool for improving your online presence, especially if you rely on local customers. It helps search engines understand your business better, enhances your visibility in local search results, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and trust you.
Whether you use a plugin, a tool, or hire a professional, implementing Local Business Schema is a smart move for any business looking to stand out in local search. Ready to get started? Let us help you set it up and boost your local SEO today!