Understanding how to effectively use schema markup can be a game-changer for your website's SEO. If your homepage serves as a location landing page, you might wonder whether to implement organization schema, local business schema, or both. The good news? You can actually use both!
Table of Contents
Using Both Organization and Local Business Schema
When your homepage functions as a landing page for a specific location, it’s beneficial to incorporate both organization schema and local business schema. Typically, you would start with organization schema that references the local business schema with the appropriate subtype. This dual approach allows you to provide comprehensive information about your business to search engines.
For example, if your business is a medical practice, you would use the organization schema for your primary details and then specify a subtype for local business. This ensures that search engines can easily identify who you are and what you do.
Where Should You Place the Schema?
Now, you might be asking yourself, “Should the organization schema be placed on the about page?” The answer is no—it does not have to be restricted to that page. You can implement it on your homepage as well, which can enhance your site's overall visibility.
Understanding Array Schema Markup
Another advanced option is to use an array schema. An array allows you to include both organization and local business schema in a single markup. This can be particularly useful for businesses that have various subtypes or categories.
To implement an array, you will structure it in a way that specifies both the organization type and its relevant local business subtype. Here’s a quick example:
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "name": "Your Business Name", "subOrganization": { "@type": "LocalBusiness", "name": "Your Local Business Name", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "123 Main St", "addressLocality": "Your City", "addressRegion": "Your State", "postalCode": "12345", "addressCountry": "USA" } } }
This structure allows you to convey multiple schema types effectively, enhancing your site's SEO capabilities.
Got SEO Questions? Get answers every week at 4pm ET at Hump Day Hangouts. Ask questions ahead of time, or live – just go to: https://semanticmastery.com/hdho (bookmark this!) 10+ years of insights given every week!
Get your checklist to help get better results with GBPs, faster.
Tips for Effective Schema Implementation
- Use JSON-LD: Google recommends using JSON-LD for its ease of implementation and maintainability.
- Be Specific: Always choose the most specific schema type for your business to avoid confusion.
- Regular Testing: After implementing schema, validate your markup using tools like Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool to ensure everything is working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use both schema types on the same page?
Yes, you can use both organization and local business schema on the same page, especially if your homepage serves as a location landing page.
What happens if I don’t use schema markup?
Your website may miss out on valuable search visibility and rich snippets that can enhance click-through rates and user engagement.
Where can I learn more about schema markup?
For more detailed guidance, visit The Local SEO Toolkit, where you can find free resources to optimize your schema markup and improve your local SEO strategy.
In conclusion, effectively using schema markup can significantly enhance your site's visibility and performance in search engines. By implementing both organization and local business schema, you can provide search engines with the necessary information to understand your business better.