If your business shows up in the real world but nowhere near the top of local search results, you’re basically invisible. In 2026, Local SEO isn’t a “nice-to-have” thing but in fact it’s the oxygen your brick-and-mortar brand needs to be found, chosen, and loved. Whether you run a café, boutique, clinic, or consultancy, this SEO checklist will walk you through the 15 absolute essentials you can’t afford to ignore. 1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP) Like a Boss