You’ve probably noticed a shift lately. Your competitor’s business suddenly shows up in the Google 3-Pack. Their reviews are climbing, their website ranks higher for local keywords, and they seem to be getting all the attention online. Sound familiar?
If so, you’re not imagining things—your competitor might be using a Local SEO package. And while you’re still waiting on organic momentum or foot traffic to catch up, they’re already one step ahead by showing up exactly where their customers are searching.
Here’s the thing: Local SEO isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore—it’s a critical part of staying relevant in your market. And if you don’t understand what your competitors are doing, you’re leaving opportunities wide open for them to dominate your space.
Let’s break down how Local SEO works, what those packages typically include, how to tell if your competitors are using one, and what you can do to catch up—and get ahead.
What Is a Local SEO Package?
A Local SEO package is a bundled digital marketing service designed to improve your visibility in search results specifically tied to a geographic area. Think Google Maps listings, “near me” search results, and city-specific keyword rankings.
When done right, these packages help your business:
- Appear in local search results on Google and Bing
- Rank in the local 3-pack (the map + listings that appear at the top)
- Attract more qualified foot traffic
- Earn and manage reviews
- Show up consistently across directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, Apple Maps, and others
If your competitor is consistently showing up before you in search—even though you’re in the same area—it’s likely they’ve invested in one of these packages.
What’s Included in a Typical Local SEO Package?
Every provider offers a slightly different setup, but solid Local SEO packages usually include:
1. Google Business Profile Optimization
If your competitor’s listing has updated hours, service areas, fresh photos, FAQs, and steady reviews—it’s been professionally managed. This is Local SEO 101.
2. NAP (Name, Address, Phone) Consistency
Your business info needs to be correct and consistent across hundreds of directories. These citations signal trust to search engines. Your competitor’s visibility is growing because their listings are everywhere—and accurate.
3. Local Keyword Research
They’re not targeting broad terms like “best shoes”—they’re targeting “shoe store in Austin” or “custom sneakers near South Congress.” That kind of precise keyword mapping is the result of local search strategy.
4. Review Management
Are they getting new reviews every week? Do they respond quickly and professionally? That’s likely an automated reputation management tool baked into their SEO package.
5. On-Page Local Optimization
Their website probably includes location-specific landing pages, structured data, and internal links optimized for your city or zip code. These tactics tell Google, “This business serves this area.”
6. Local Link Building
They may be getting local press, guest posts, or backlinks from regional blogs and organizations. These local links build domain authority and trust.
7. Content Marketing with Local Intent
If your competitor has blog content like “Top 10 Things to Do in [City]” or “How We Serve the [Neighborhood] Community,” that’s Local SEO content in action.
How to Know If Your Competitor Is Using Local SEO
So how do you tell if they’ve got professional help? Here are the signs:
1. They’re in the Map Pack—And You’re Not
Search for your main service + city (e.g., “plumber in Des Moines”). If they consistently rank in the top 3 map results and you don’t, that’s a clear sign.
2. Their Google Business Profile Is Rich and Active
Are they posting updates? Do they respond to reviews? Are their business categories precise? That’s ongoing optimization.
3. Their Website Has Location-Based Pages
Check if their site has individual pages targeting different cities or neighborhoods. That’s a smart SEO move.
4. They’re Getting Local Mentions
Search their business name plus “review,” “blog,” or “news.” If you find local blogs, media coverage, or community features—it’s intentional, not luck.
5. Their Reviews Are Steadily Increasing
A steady flow of 4- and 5-star reviews? They’re likely using tools that request, collect, and manage feedback.
Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore Local SEO
You might think, “Well, my loyal customers know me.” That’s great—but what about the hundreds or thousands of potential customers searching for your services every week?
Here’s why Local SEO isn’t optional:
- 46% of all Google searches are local.
- 76% of local searches result in a same-day visit.
- 28% of those visits lead to a purchase.
If you’re not showing up in those results, you’re not even in the running.
What You Can Do Right Now
You don’t need to play catch-up forever. In fact, now that you understand what your competitor is doing, you can make smarter moves starting today.
1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Fill it out completely. Add photos. List your services. Use all available fields. Post updates weekly. This alone can give you a visibility boost.
2. Ensure NAP Consistency
Use a tool like Moz Local, BrightLocal, or Yext to audit your online citations. Fix any inconsistencies right away.
3. Ask for Reviews—Strategically
Don’t wait for happy customers to review you—ask them! Use text follow-ups or emails after service. And always respond to reviews.
4. Target Local Keywords on Your Website
Update your homepage and service pages to include city-specific terms. If you serve multiple areas, build unique pages for each.
5. Start Local Content Marketing
Write blogs and create resources that highlight your involvement in the community, address local issues, or support local events.
6. Partner with a Local SEO Expert
If you want to scale fast and do it right, it may be time to work with a pro. An experienced Local SEO team will uncover hidden opportunities, audit your competition, and build a strategy tailored to your location and audience.
How Local SEO Levels the Playing Field
Here’s the best part: Local SEO is still a relatively untapped space for many businesses. While your competitor may have a head start, most companies aren’t doing it well—or consistently.
That means you have a real opportunity to show up where it matters most: on your ideal customer’s screen, when they need you the most.
You don’t need to outspend national brands. You don’t need a million-dollar marketing budget. You just need a focused, localized approach and the commitment to show up smarter and stronger.
Ready to Compete Locally—And Win?
If your competitors are already using Local SEO to their advantage, it’s time you level the field—or even tilt it in your favor.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you create a Local SEO strategy that gets you found, chosen, and remembered in your community.
Let’s turn “just local” into locally dominant.
