Local SEO 2026: practical checklist for Belgian SMEs

Quick answer

• A local page should target one single commercial intent.
• Proof points (reviews, case studies, outcomes) matter more than text volume.
• Useful local SEO is primarily about clarity and conversion.

1) Structure: a local promise readable in 10 seconds

On many SME websites, the "services" page stays too generic. The prospect cannot tell whether you cover their area or what you actually deliver.

A clearer example:

• "Website creation for SMEs in Brussels"
• "Local SEO audit for freelancers in Walloon Brabant"
• "Average delivery timeline: 3 to 5 weeks"

2) Content: answer real buying questions before competitors

High-performing local content answers:

1. How much does it cost?
2. How long does delivery take?
3. What concrete outcome can be expected?

Google's official framework remains the best baseline: Search Essentials.

3) Technical: remove friction that blocks inquiries

Even with a strong offer, you lose leads if:

• the page loads poorly on mobile,
• contact navigation is confusing,
• important URLs are not discovered by Google.

Google's guidance on helpful content keeps you aligned with user intent: Helpful Content.

For technical markup decisions, review: Structured Data Intro.

What to do this week

1. Clarify your main service and target area.
2. Add 3 concrete proof points (reviews, outcomes, case studies).
3. Check the path to your contact form.
4. Strengthen internal linking to service pages.
5. Publish a short decision-focused FAQ.

Conclusion: in 2026, local SEO is not a keyword race. It is a strategy to turn local visits into qualified inquiries.