David Mihm is a prominent figure in the world of local search engine optimization (SEO), with a career spanning over two decades. His journey began in the early days of SEO and has evolved alongside the changing landscape of digital marketing, particularly as it relates to local businesses. Mihm’s expertise isn’t simply technical; it’s rooted in a deep understanding of how consumers interact with search results and how businesses can effectively connect with their local audiences. This article will explore Mihm’s career trajectory, his core philosophies, and the impact he’s had on the local SEO industry, drawing from available sources and providing a comprehensive overview of his work.
From Early SEO to Local Listings Pioneer
Mihm’s entry into the digital marketing world began in 2000, with a focus shifting to search engine marketing by 2003. This timing is crucial, as it places him at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field. He initially found himself rebuilding websites for online companies, a foundational experience that would later inform his approach to local SEO. However, it was the launch of Get Listed in 2012 that truly cemented his position as a leader in the industry.
Get Listed was an application designed to help small businesses optimize their presence in local directories. This was a critical need at the time, as local search was becoming increasingly important, but many businesses lacked the knowledge or resources to effectively manage their online listings. The success of Get Listed led to its acquisition by Moz, a major player in the SEO software and education space. This acquisition not only validated Mihm’s work but also provided him with a platform to reach a wider audience and further develop his expertise. He served as Director of Local Search Strategy at Moz Local, leading the growth and development of their local SEO offerings.
A Multifaceted Entrepreneur: Beyond Moz Local
While his time at Moz Local was significant, Mihm’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. He went on to found and run Tidings, an email newsletter product aimed at helping small businesses maximize their digital marketing efforts. Tidings was later sold to DemandScience in 2021, demonstrating Mihm’s ability to identify market needs and create successful solutions. Prior to Tidings, he also held the role of VP Product Strategy for ThriveHive from 2018-2020.
Currently, Mihm collaborates with Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling at Near Media, offering guidance to multi-location brands and agencies on navigating the complexities of local search. This collaborative approach highlights his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering a community within the industry. He’s a frequent speaker at local search conferences, including MozCon Local and engagePDX, further solidifying his role as a thought leader.
Core Philosophies: Organic SEO, Programmatic Advertising, and the Future of Search
Mihm’s perspective on local SEO is nuanced and forward-thinking. He recognizes the increasing prominence of voice search and local search, but doesn’t necessarily view organic SEO as a declining tactic. Instead, he sees it as evolving, requiring marketers to adapt their strategies to meet the changing needs of consumers. He’s also a proponent of programmatic advertising, believing it holds significant potential for the future of local marketing. This isn’t a dismissal of traditional methods, but rather an embrace of new technologies and approaches.
He’s particularly interested in how enterprise businesses can leverage their local talent to create relevant content at the neighborhood level. This highlights his understanding of the importance of hyper-local marketing and the need to tailor strategies to specific communities. Mihm’s insights extend beyond simply ranking higher in search results; he focuses on building genuine connections between businesses and their customers.
Expertise in Action: Client Testimonials and Impact
The value of Mihm’s expertise is consistently reflected in the testimonials he receives from clients. These testimonials emphasize his ability to deliver tangible results, provide actionable recommendations, and communicate complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
Here’s a summary of client feedback:
| Client | Testimonial Highlight |
|---|---|
| Associate Vice President, OHSU | “Your insights and your efforts have made a real and tangible difference in the ability of Oregonians to connect with OHSU.” |
| Marketing Director | “David is the most valuable digital marketing consultant we have hired in our ten-plus years of business.” |
| Director of Analytics & Search Optimization | “David provided us with valuable insights, exceeded our expectations and helped us set priorities and devise a workable action plan.” |
| Director of Online Marketing | “David’s knowledge about Local SEO is second to none, and he was able to share insights & actionable recommendations that have helped us improve our online presence.” |
These statements underscore Mihm’s ability to not only understand the technical aspects of local SEO but also to translate that knowledge into measurable business outcomes. He’s described as possessing both “in-the-trenches” tactical knowledge and a strategic worldview, a rare combination that makes him highly sought after by enterprise brands.
Navigating the Changing Landscape of Local Search
The local search landscape is constantly evolving, driven by factors such as Google’s algorithm updates, the rise of mobile search, and the increasing use of voice assistants. Mihm’s deep understanding of Google’s algorithm, cultivated over years of observation and experience, allows him to anticipate these changes and advise clients accordingly. He’s described as knowing the algorithm “as intimately as anyone outside of Mountain View,” a testament to his dedication and expertise.
He recognizes that half of all search is now local, making it crucial for businesses to optimize their online presence for local searchers. This includes optimizing websites, managing Google Business Profiles, and building local citations. However, Mihm’s approach goes beyond these basic tactics. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer intent, creating relevant content, and building a strong online reputation.
A Comparative Look: Mihm’s Focus vs. Traditional SEO
While traditional SEO focuses on broad keyword rankings, Mihm’s expertise centers on hyper-local visibility. This requires a different set of strategies and tactics.
| Feature | Traditional SEO | David Mihm's Local SEO |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Broad Keyword Rankings | Local Visibility & Customer Intent |
| Target Audience | Global or National | Specific Geographic Areas |
| Key Tactics | Content Marketing, Link Building | Google Business Profile Optimization, Local Citations, Hyper-Local Content |
| Metrics | Organic Traffic, Keyword Rankings | Local Pack Rankings, Phone Calls, Direction Requests, Store Visits |
| Algorithm Emphasis | Core Google Algorithm | Google’s Local Algorithm & Map Pack |
This table illustrates the distinct differences between traditional SEO and the specialized approach championed by David Mihm. Local SEO requires a granular understanding of local search dynamics and a commitment to building a strong local online presence.
The Future of Local Marketing: Predictions and Trends
Mihm’s insights into the future of local marketing are particularly valuable. He anticipates continued growth in voice search and the importance of optimizing for conversational queries. He also believes that programmatic advertising will play a larger role in local marketing, allowing businesses to target consumers with personalized ads based on their location and interests.
He’s also interested in the potential of nonprofits to leverage local SEO to connect with their communities. He’s offered advice on building websites and marketing strategies for nonprofits, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities they face. His perspective is that local search isn’t just for commercial businesses; it’s a powerful tool for any organization that wants to reach a local audience.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Local Search Innovation
David Mihm’s career is a testament to the power of specialization and the importance of staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. From his early days in SEO to his pioneering work with Get Listed and his continued contributions to the industry, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of local search and a commitment to helping businesses succeed. His expertise isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about understanding the human element of search and building genuine connections between businesses and their customers. He remains a vital voice in the local SEO community, shaping the future of how businesses connect with their local audiences.