Local SEO for Non-English Markets: A Profitable Investment

        
The power of search engine optimization (SEO) in boosting return on investment (ROI) is unmistakable, as illustrated in this case study focused on a French Canadian website. Despite being outside our typical English-language purview, this case exemplifies the universal applicability and potential profitability of a robust SEO strategy.

Audit and Strategy

Our initial step was to conduct a comprehensive SEO audit of the client's website. The site was not under any penalties; it simply lacked significant traffic and was somewhat over-optimized for its primary keywords. Recognizing the need to build a broader link profile, we moved forward with a targeted approach.

Keyword Optimization

Our strategy hinged on identifying "hidden goldmines"—keywords that the site was already ranking for but not yet at the top. For this particular site, we pinpointed 43 terms with search volumes ranging from 20 to 1,000 monthly searches and cost-per-click (CPC) values stretching from $0.20 to $5. Despite fewer easy wins due to its local focus, we targeted high-intent keywords within the $4 to $5 CPC range to drive conversion.

Competitive Analysis

We also conducted a competitive gap analysis, uncovering 31 keywords that rivals were targeting, some of which included local areas not yet pursued by the client, as well as popular brands and service-related terms. These findings were promptly communicated to the client, paving the way for new optimization opportunities.

SEO Campaign Execution

Differing from other case studies, this client had initially dabbled in SEO independently before engaging our services. After a modest start in March 2022, they experienced a noticeable uptick in traffic. Following a brief hiatus, they resumed with a more robust and strategic effort in early 2023, incorporating a mix of natural, branded, and exact match anchor texts for backlinks.

Impressive Outcomes

The results were remarkable. With a total expenditure of $5,300.99 with our services, the client's website now boasts a monthly traffic value of $8,000 according to Ahrefs—an annual equivalent of $96,000 that would otherwise be spent on pay-per-click (PPC) advertising. This case reaffirms the substantial impact of a well-crafted SEO campaign, even in non-English speaking markets.