Local SEO is one of the most effective marketing strategies that you can use today, especially if you're a small or mid-sized business. It levels the playing field somewhat and allows companies with less marketing resources to stand toe-to-toe with major corporations if handled correctly. Here's a look at some of the facts you must know about local SEO:
1. Four Pillars of Local SEO
There are four pillars that make a local SEO strategy work. They are Google Maps, Review Websites, Local Keywords, and Website Content. Google Maps ensures prospective customers can see where you are located. Reviews provide an unbiased insight into your establishment, keywords attract prospective customers from the right location, and content keeps them engaged.
2. Incorrect Information in the Listings can Ruin Your Reputation
Providing accurate information in Google Maps listing is absolutely essential to run a successful strategy. Around 81% of people distrust a company if the information available online is inaccurate. If they find a wrong address or phone number, they will be frustrated by it. You need to make sure all information is correct at all times.
3. User Experience is the Most Important Factor
Modern consumers value user experience over everything else. They will want a smooth website performance, accurate information, valuable content, and good-quality services. They will also expect prompt engagement on the website and social media profiles. If you want to succeed with SEO, it is important to provide a good user experience.
4. Over 40% of Searches are Local
The local search takes up a large chunk of the search volume. Most people want to find products, services, and information locally because that is considered most accurate. For example, if a person is looking to start a garden in their backyard, they will seek local information because they want to ensure the plants they grow can thrive in the environment.
5. Local SEO Will Bring Foot Traffic
Local SEO is one of the few digital marketing strategies that translate well into brick-and-mortar sales. A successful campaign will drive prospective customers to your store, which makes it a worthwhile investment. That’s why experts recommend creating a website and planning a local SEO campaign even if you are a traditional brick-and-mortar store.
6. Almost Every Consumer Reads Online Reviews
Approximately 90% of consumers read online reviews before they visit a local business. As much as 84% trust the online reviews as much as a personal recommendation from a friend or family member. This shows just how important it is to engage in local SEO and encourage those reviews. You need to combine this strategy with reputation management to maintain control of your online reputation.
7. Local SEO Draws Impulse Buyers
A combination of mobile phones and local SEO can encourage impulse buying. If people are in the mood to shop, they turn to their phones and look for interesting products that they can use. A strong local SEO presence will draw these individuals to your store. They will even walk into stores on impulsive after looking for ‘shops open now’ on their phones.
8. Being Mobile Friendly is Essential
When you consider the previous point, it becomes obvious that a strong mobile presence is essential. Local SEO relies heavily on mobile so you need to make sure your website is optimized for this platform and your marketing targets mobile users. Few local searches are carried out on desktops and these don’t usually involve any kind of impulse buying.
A rich, well-planned local SEO service will help your businesses stand out and get fresh customers. It will also help you establish a strong reputation online, which will only benefit your company in the long run.
