Local Search Explained
How to Get Found in Google, Maps, Voice Search, and AI-Powered Search
Local search has changed forever.
Ten years ago, being visible in Google was enough. Today, people find businesses in a dozen different ways, from “near me” searches on their phone, to asking Siri or Alexa, to getting AI-driven recommendations from tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Copilot and Google Gemini.
If your business isn’t visible across these touchpoints, you’re invisible to a large share of your potential customers.
That’s why Local Search is no longer just SEO - it’s SEO + AEO + GEO working together.
Why local search matters
46% of all Google searches have a local intent
76% of people who search for a local business on their smartphone visit within 24 hours
28% of local searches result in a purchase
Local search isn't optional - it's where local people are looking for local businesses right now.
And with AI changing the way people get answers, businesses that optimise early will capture tomorrow's search behaviour too.
The three pillars of modern local search
1. Local SEO
Be found where it matters
Local SEO is the foundation. It makes sure you appear in Google Search and Google Maps when people look for your services.
We do this by optimising your:
Google Business Profile
Website for service + location keywords
Local citations and directory listings
Reviews and reputation signals
2. Local AEO
Become the Trusted Answer
Search engines are moving from showing results to giving direct answers.
Local AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation) positions you as that trusted answer.
We achieve this with:
Structured data & schema markup
Optimised FAQs for voice and AI
Clear, authoritative service content
3. Local GEO
Be Recommended by AI
Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, Claude and Copilot are becoming gatekeepers of local recommendations.
To appear here, we optimise your:
Verified local data across trusted sources
AI-friendly content and service descriptions
Reputation signals and authority building
How It All Works Together
Local SEO makes you visible.
Local AEO makes you the answer.
Local LLM optimisation makes AI recommend you.
When combined, these three pillars ensure your business is impossible to ignore - today and in the future.
Is your area still available?
We will only work with one business type per location, this allows us to focus exclusively on improving your businesses local search presence and help you out perform your competition.
