Are local keyword variations included in the keyword research?

Yes, local keyword variations are an essential part of keyword research conducted by SEO packages, especially for businesses that serve specific geographic regions or have local storefronts. Here's how SEO packages typically include and optimize for local keyword variations:

1. **Identifying Geographic Modifiers**: SEO packages identify and incorporate geographic modifiers such as city names, neighborhoods, states, regions, or countries into keyword research. For instance, keywords like "best restaurants in Los Angeles," "dentist near me," or "plumbing services in [city]" are examples of local keyword variations.

2. **Local Search Intent Analysis**: Understanding local search intent is crucial. SEO packages analyze user queries to determine whether they have local intent, such as looking for local businesses, services, events, or information specific to their geographical area. This helps tailor keyword strategies to attract local customers effectively.

3. **Google My Business (GMB) Optimization**: Optimizing Google My Business listings with relevant local keywords, ensuring that NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) details are consistent across online directories. This optimization helps businesses appear prominently in local search results and Google Maps.

4. **Local SEO Tools Usage**: Utilizing local SEO tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, Ahrefs, and others to research local keyword variations. These tools provide insights into search volume, competition level, and related local queries that potential customers are using.

5. **Localized Content Creation**: Creating localized content that incorporates local keywords naturally. This includes optimizing website pages, blog posts, landing pages, and service descriptions with location-specific terms to resonate with local audiences and address their specific needs.

6. **Local Citations and Backlinks**: Building local citations and acquiring backlinks from local directories, industry associations, local news sites, and community organizations. This helps establish credibility and authority in the local market and improves local SEO rankings for targeted keywords.

7. **Customer Reviews and Testimonials**: Encouraging customers to leave reviews and testimonials that mention location-specific keywords can also boost local SEO efforts. SEO packages may implement review management strategies to enhance local search visibility.

8. **Monitoring Local SEO Performance**: SEO packages monitor key metrics such as local organic traffic, local keyword rankings, GMB insights (like clicks, calls, and directions), and engagement metrics specific to local audiences. Regular monitoring and reporting ensure that local SEO strategies are effective and aligned with business goals.

By including local keyword variations in keyword research and optimization strategies, SEO packages help businesses improve their visibility in local search results, attract nearby customers, drive foot traffic to physical locations, and ultimately increase local sales and conversions. This localized approach is crucial for businesses looking to target specific geographic markets effectively through SEO.