SME’s need to understand how local search impacts their online presence and the future of local search as part of search engine optimisation (SEO).
Local search is an ever-evolving landscape and SME’s need to stay ahead of the curve to ensure they are found on the web. SEO is a crucial element of any SME’s online presence and local search should be a key part of any SEO strategy.
One of the biggest benefits of local search is that it allows your business to reach your target audience more effectively. With more and more people using their smartphones to search for products and services in their neighbourhood, it’s essential for you to have a strong online presence. By optimising your website for local search, you can increase its visibility and reach a wider, regional, audience, helping to grow your business in the long run.
How Can SME’s Embrace Local Search to Attract New Customers?
To optimise for local search add localised content, target local keywords, and obtain reviews from local customers. You also need to provide accurate information about your location, hours of operation, and contact information. You should have a Google Business Profile (previously known as Google My Business) listing that provides accurate information about your business.
Google Business Profile
Adding as much relevant information to your Google Business Profile listing as possible will help you rank high in local search results. You should include these things:
- Make sure your Google Business Profile listing has your business name, address, and phone number.
- Help Google understand what your business is about by selecting the right business categories.
- List your business hours, including any special hours or holidays.
- Add photos of your business, including exteriors, interiors, products, and team members.
- Encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile page. Show you value customer feedback by responding to all reviews.
- Link your website to your Google Business Profile.
- Use a local number instead of a mobile.
- Write a detailed business description with relevant keywords.
- Post regular updates about your business, like news, events, or promotions.
- Maintain consistency across all online directories and platforms.
Google Business Profile listings with these details will improve your visibility in local search results and attract more customers.
Be Mobile Friendly
A significant factor in local search is having a mobile-friendly website. With more and more people using their smartphones to search for products and services, it’s essential for you to have a website that’s easy to navigate and optimised for mobile devices – including a responsive design that adjusts to the size of the screen and provides a seamless user experience.
Any Review Is a Positive Review, Right?
Finally, you should focus on creating a positive online reputation by encouraging customers to leave reviews and responding to any negative feedback. This includes monitoring your online reputation through tools like Google Alerts and taking steps to improve your digital presence by responding to reviews and addressing any concerns. It’s important to respond politely and understandably to negative reviews in order to build customer trust and loyalty.
In conclusion, local search is a crucial aspect of SEO that is becoming increasingly relevant as people search for products and services in their immediate area. By embracing the future of local search, you can increase your online visibility, reach your target audience more effectively, and attract new customers. By doing so, you can grow your business and succeed in the long run.
Need Help with Optimising for Local Search?
Here at Fat Media, we know that there is a lot to cover when it comes to local search and getting it right can make all the difference. As an award-winning digital marketing agency, our SEO services can help you to get on track with optimising your website for local search. Get in touch with us today.
