Where to learn SEO practices, especially local

[crazydirthead]

I am looking to learn SEO as I know how important it is. I have basic understandings, but I don't know where to start, or what to add. my website is viralextent.com and apparently I'm not so good at ranking. I want to rank locally for "web design". I understand that I couldn't touch the national market right now as I can't even seem to grasp the local. I know everyone's time is valuable so I'm not looking for a free assessment. Where should I go to learn what I need to do next and kind of guide me through the process of becoming #1 for local? I am obviously an SEOmoz PRO member, where should I start here, or should I be looking somewhere else? Any direction would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[DeanAndrews]

I would go through the guide on SEOmoz here http://www.seomoz.org/beginners-guide-to-seo I think you will find that if you are willing to put the effort most of your answers on SEOmoz.

Good luck my friend - may SEO be with you!

[edwardrj]

Perform a search for "web design." Do you see local search results or standard results? Google incorporates lo all search results for many queries, and the first place to start would be setting up a Google+ Local business page.

[jonrognerud]

Read up on localseoguide.com and use getlisted.org. But first, do some research. Type in your terms, either by using implicit or explicit searches.

Example:

Implicit search = "web design" (and using the auto geo/IP detection from Google and settings on your page)
Explicit search = "web design san diego", "web design san diego, ca"

If no local results are shown, still go thru getlisted.org - but you will focus more on SEO, or "hybrid" SEO, not pure Local SEO pack optimization.

Didn't see any local pack results for web design in san diego for example.

Local citations are important, for example (links). But, so are reviews and other factors. Learn about the local ranking and optimization factors from the annual survey reports: http://www.davidmihm.com/blog/ and what to focus on.

Watch the 50 minute local seo training video on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7hJzQd-ZdA

Enjoy!