People love to shop local – but they determine which local businesses they’re going to visit online. Late last year, Google reported that 46% of searches are for local businesses, and “near me” searches have increased by a jaw dropping 500%. Given these numbers, what’s the best way to boost your business’ visibility locally?
Dial in Your Google My Business Listing
It’s essential to be sure your Google My Business listing is correct. Google My Business is a free tool Google provides to business owners to help them manage their information across all Google properties. It also serves as a directory listing. Customers assume Google has accurate information, so it’s critical that you claim and monitor your Google My Business listing to make sure your address, website, hours of operation, and other critical information is correct.
Optimize for Local Search
Also important – understanding how your business appears in local search results. It’s a good idea to regularly search for your business anonymously – logging out of your usual browser settings gives you search results free of influence due to your normal online activity. Have trusted friends and colleagues do the same and tell you what they find.
Examine these understandings in context with what you see in your Google Analytics and other data sources: they may reveal opportunities to better optimize your site copy for local search. Improving search can be one of the most cost-effective ways to boost your business’ local visibility, especially if you have the luxury of a reasonable timeline.
Use Targeted Digital Advertising Campaigns
Unfortunately, time is money, and sometimes we need to boost local market visibility relatively quickly. At that point, it’s prudent to consider the mix of digital advertising tools available to you. Paid search ads are an essential element of local search strategies. To make the most out of your investment in digital advertising, you need a compelling offer and specific targeting to ensure your ads are seen within the neighborhoods and by the people most likely to patronize your business.
Learn more about ways to boost your local visibility quickly and affordably.
