Local customers are now switching to the Internet to search for local businesses. Did you know 64% of local customers use online search engines and directories as their main way to find local businesses? Any business that gets some or all of its customers or clients locally should consider local SEO. If you have a physical address in the city and expect people to go there, you should be doing local SEO for that location.
The first and probably most important for local SEO is that you need to create and claim a local profile on Google and other platforms. Your local listing is what will show for localized search results. Citations are just as important for local SEO because it’s a place online that uses your company NAP (name, address, phone number) all on the same page and in the same format. Yelp, Superpages, City Search, Urbanspoon (for restaurants), Angie’s List, Yahoo Local, Trip Advisor, and Kudzu are just a few that you should be listed in. Lastly, reviews and lots of positive reviews. Google Places is one of the most important local ranking factors.
The number of online searches for local businesses has increased to 58%, which is more than double the growth in general search volumes. Using local search engines and online directories promotes your business to local customers at exactly the point that they are looking for your business. There is no better time to connect with potential customers than when they really need you.
When was the last time you didn’t use your phone to look up a local business or search for the best eats in town? More and more local customers use mobile phones and mobile applications to find the best local businesses while they’re out and about.
Only 10% of businesses have claimed their Google Places local listing and most local businesses haven’t come to grips with online marketing yet. This leaves the door open for you to get a head start on your competitors. Once it’s set up, optimize your profile with categories, pictures, and videos. CRM is increasingly more important with the popularization of online business; we suggest using CRM software such as Infusionsoft to increase sales, automate marketing, and connect with customers. Remember, word of mouth is a major factor in the success of local businesses. Get your trusted customers to review your business online and attract hundreds of new customers.
Idea Labs Consulting is an Austin-based team of coaches and consultants helping small businesses solve a wide range of business problems since 2011. Our team is composed of experienced entrepreneurs and technical experts.
We offer three distinct ways to work with you based on your current needs.
- Unlimited business coaching and consulting for a full year [$100 per month or less]
- Access to our resource platform of our products and services [pay for what you need]
- Business products and tools we recommend [free]
While there are plenty of sources for start-ups and small businesses to receive help, funding, and mentorship, Idea Labs operates like a marketplace by meeting the needs of your business’ ecosystem. As opposed to the common consulting and business coaching trope of increasing billable hours or project scope in order to maximize revenue, we prefer to be a place you can depend on during crucial stages of your business journey. We can help connect where you are now and where you want to be.
Idea Labs Consulting
www.idealabsconsulting.com
(512) 348-6344
