Local search engine optimization (“SEO”) is one of the most effective ways to market your business at the exact time customers are looking for a local solution. Local SEO includes multiple strategies like ranking on search engine results, business directories such as Yelp and Google My Business, location-specific website content and online reviews. Millions of customers are searching for businesses just like yours right in your neighborhood. Make sure you’re being found when it matters most.
46% of all Google searches are local
64% of local customers use search engines and directories as their main way to find local business
78% of local mobile searches result in an offline purchase
The top reasons for customers to search locally are to find a specific business or find a specific product or service. If they’re looking for a specific business, they’re probably looking for your address or contact information. By using local search tactics, you can better position your business and promote what you have to offer to local customers when they’re looking for your type of business.
According to Google, 50% of consumers who conducted a local search on their smartphone visited a store within a day. In fact, Google’s algorithm now prefers mobile-friendly websites and ads. This means that missing out on local SEO, can also lead to missing out on potential customers and in-store traffic.
Did you know that Google My Business is a FREE listing service? By claiming your listing and adding up-to-date information, you can show up in higher in local search results, grabbing the attention of those shoppers that need you now. In fact, according to comScore, address and location are the primary pieces of information sought by local searchers. Other important pieces of information are business category, phone number and hours of operation - all things that are provided in a claimed Google business listing.
Word of mouth is still the most popular way of recommending a local business and also still the most persuasive. With the growth of search engines, third party reviews are seen in the same light as word of mouth. More specifically, 88% of consumers say they trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations (Search Engine Land). Almost 9 in 10 consumers read online reviews to determine the quality of a local business, and 39% do so on a regular basis. Bottom line? The more 5 star reviews, the better.
Local search is growing more than ever which means local SEO is becoming more important. Now is the time to take advantage of local search engine optimization and boost your business. All local businesses, from jewelers and restaurants to dentists and attorneys, you can improve your business and make more money through local SEO.
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