In this article, I lay out the single biggest edge local businesses are missing: local relevant backlinks.
I’m Chris Green, and in this guide I’ll show why local backlinks matter, where to get them, and how to start building the right kinds of links that make Google sit up and take notice.
Takeaway: Local backlinks are more than links — they’re community endorsements. Build them with genuine relationships and watch your local search presence grow.
📍 Why local backlinks matter
Local backlinks are SEO gold because search engines care about relevance. A link from your local chamber of commerce, neighborhood newsletter, or community partner signals to Google that your business is trusted in your area.
Those are neighborhood votes of confidence — far more meaningful than a generic mention from a site half a country away.
“Google cares about relevance.”
🔗 High-value local link examples
Not all backlinks are created equal. Focus on sources that tie your business to your location and community:
- Chamber of Commerce membership pages
- Local newspapers and neighborhood newsletters
- Sponsorship mentions from local sports teams or events
- Vendor or partner pages for nearby businesses
- Local business associations and community-focused blogs
These links tell search engines you’re not just another business — you’re the business for your area.
🛠️ How to start building local backlinks
Stop chasing generic directory listings and start building relationships in your backyard. Here’s a simple process to get started:
- Join your local chamber or business association and get listed on their site.
- Sponsor a youth team, festival, or charity — ask for a web mention in return.
- Reach out to neighborhood newsletters, bloggers, and community forums with a local story or offer.
- Partner with complementary local businesses for cross-promotions and co-created content.
- Collect and share customer testimonials from local clients — ask for links where possible.
Focus on building real relationships, not quick link swaps. The community-based links have staying power and relevance that search engines reward.
❌ Common mistakes to avoid
Many business owners waste time on low-value tactics. Avoid:
- Chasing every generic directory — quantity over quality rarely helps.
- Buying links from unrelated sites (Fiverr) or networks.
- Ignoring offline relationships that can turn into online mentions.
“So, stop chasing those generic directory listings and start building relationships in your backyard.”
📈 Measuring success with local backlinks
Track the impact of local backlinks by monitoring organic traffic from your area, rankings for local search terms, and referral traffic from the linking sites.
Look for consistent increases in indexed pages, local search visibility, and enquiries coming from community pages.
❓FAQ
How quickly will local backlinks help my rankings?
It varies. Some links can have an impact in weeks; others take months. Consistency and relevance are the keys — a strong pattern of local endorsements builds authority over time.
Are all local backlinks dofollow?
No. Both nofollow and dofollow links from reputable local sources can drive visibility and traffic. Focus on relationships first; dofollow is a bonus.
Can I get local backlinks if I’m new to the area?
Yes. Volunteer, sponsor events, join local groups, and offer partnerships or discounts to neighborhood organizations. Local outreach works even for newcomers.
Should I stop using online directories entirely?
Not necessarily—some niche local directories help. But don’t rely on them alone. Prioritize community-focused, authoritative links.
What’s the best first step?
Join your local chamber or business association and ask about web listings and partnership opportunities. It’s often the quickest route to a high-value local backlink.
Takeaway: Local backlinks are more than links — they’re community endorsements. Build them with genuine relationships and watch your local search presence grow.
