As a business owner, you know that showing up in Google search results is critical. But how do you get your business to appear when someone in your community is looking for what you offer? The answer lies in mastering local keyword research. This is the foundation of a successful google search optimization strategy, whether you have a robust website or are relying on your Google Business Profile (GBP) and social media. This guide is designed to teach you how to do local keyword research for your business, and it’s a great place for beginners to start. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to improve Google search results, and Google search ranking for your business in your local market. Let’s dive in. Understanding the Mind of Your Local Customer: Google Micro-Moments Before you can find the right keywords, you have to understand the people behind the search. Google has identified four types of “micro-moments”—critical points when people turn to their mobile phones to act on a need. By understanding these moments, you can align your content with their intent. Let’s use a fictional business as an example: “Threads & Stitches” A tailoring service in Lagos owned by Mr. Ade; is looking to improve his google search ranking. Imagine Gloria (a potential customer of Mr. Ade), who lives in Lekki, needs a tailor. Her search journey would follow these micro-moments: Different Types of Keywords Before we get started on how to do local keyword research for your business, it’s important to know the different types of keywords you’ll encounter and their purpose. Applying Keyword Types for “Threads & Stitches” How to Do Local Keyword Research for Your Business: A Simple Checklist Ready to get started on your own google search optimization journey? Here is a simple, step-by-step checklist to help you generate a list of local keywords that will help you improve your website SEO. Step 1: Get to Know Your Business and Your Customers Before you even touch a keyword tool, sit down and answer these foundational questions. The answers will guide your entire strategy. Mr. Ade identifies that his business specializes in high-quality African fabrics and offers personalized design consultations. His ideal customers are working professionals and parents in Lagos looking for bespoke, stylish outfits. Step 2: Start Generating Keyword Ideas Start with what you already know. Think like your customer and write down every possible search query they might use to find a business like yours. This is your seed list. Mr. Ade’s initial brainstorm list includes: “tailor near me,” “African fashion designer Lagos,” “children’s tailor Lagos,” and “how much does it cost to get a dress tailored in Lagos?” Step 3: Spy on Your Competitors (In a Good Way!) Your competitors have already done some of the work. See what phrases they are using to describe their products or services on their websites and social media. Step 4: Use Google to Your Advantage Google is your best friend for keyword research. How Threads & Stitches Uses Google Step 5: What to Do With Your Keywords: Putting Them to Use Now that you have a list of relevant local keywords, what do you do with them? Step 6: Track Your Performance with Google Search Console Once you have a website, Google Search Console is a free and powerful tool to monitor your keyword performance. By diligently conducting local keyword research and understanding how to use the insights gained, Threads & Stitches, and businesses like yours in Nigeria, can significantly improve google search optimization and attract more local customers.