No fluff, no jargon — just what actually moves the needle for local businesses on Google Maps, search and AI.
Every article written by Michael Coombe — founder of Lead Local SEO
Local SEO changed more this year than in the previous five. Here's exactly what works in 2026 — Google Maps, reviews, and the new AI search battleground.
Read this if you want the whole 2026 playbook — every step, in order, with the numbers behind it.
Michael Coombe · July 6, 2026 · 15 min read
Read the full guide
Reviews
Reviews carry about 16% of local ranking weight and decide who gets the call. Here's the honest, Google-compliant system for getting more of them — the timing, the ask, and how to scale it.
Read this if your competitors have 200 reviews, you have 25, and you're not sure how to close the gap without cutting corners.
Michael Coombe · July 21, 2026 · 10 min read
Google Maps
The Google Map Pack drives more calls than any spot on the search page. Here are the five reasons local businesses miss out — with the 2026 data and fixes for each.
Read this if you search your own service and see three competitors in the map box instead of you.
Michael Coombe · July 6, 2026 · 7 min read
Local SEO
SEO or Google Ads first? An honest, numbers-backed breakdown for local businesses — real costs, timelines, and the sequencing strategy that beats choosing just one.
Read this if you've got a marketing budget and can't decide which side of Google gets it.
Michael Coombe · July 6, 2026 · 7 min read
AI Search
AI assistants now send real customers — but only 1% of businesses ever get named. Here's exactly how ChatGPT picks local businesses, and how to become its answer.
Read this if you've wondered why AI assistants recommend your competitors and never you.
Michael Coombe · July 6, 2026 · 6 min read