Local SEO company

[echo1]

How important it is to choose a local SEO company based on their location? How can you check their reliability?

[Bryan_Loconto]

I would do a few checks, first see if they are ranking for their own term, ie we are in the miami/fort lauderdale our terms that we are looking (and are) to rank for are SEO Miami or SEO Fort Lauderdale. Local SEO does not have to be done by a local SEO person or company. However a local SEO guy probably has local connection.

[BeardoCo]

Depends what industry you are in.  I think some industries it is essential for someone to know the location and competition professionally rather then just using the same tactics they would normally use.

[irvingw]

SEO work is done over the internet, why would you need them to be a local company, other than to go to their office for face to face meetings perhaps?

[BedeFahey]

From a purely technical perspective, there's no reason that I can think of.  I can, however, think of some business, relationship, and link building reasons.

• Greater understanding of the geographic area and nuances. Working in Lancaster, PA, for instance, I've seen some seriously weird phrases that people use (and search for) idiomatically.

• Potentially stronger (or already existing) local relationships for link building, both in terms of local business relationships as well as with local niche sites and authorities (e.g. newspapers).

• Face-to-Face might, potentially, offer more accountability. I guess this one depends very strongly on the company you're dealing with, but you could make the argument that an SEO would develop a better understanding of your business if they meet you.

I can also think of some downsides, like lack of talent in your area.

Whether you're looking locally or further abroad, if you have concerns, references or referrals are always a big help, in my opinion.