Over 1.5 billion websites exist worldwide, and less than 200 million are active. That’s quite the competition, and it can feel challenging to stand out from the crowd.
But many businesses are taking their company local to reduce the competition. You might wonder how you can do this and what are the benefits? Read this guide on the benefits of local marketing today!
What Is Local Digital Marketing?
While some businesses will get started across the web immediately, that could hurt your business. You might be throwing your reach too far and not focusing on your target audience. Local digital marketing is especially important if you have a locally owned business.
Level the Playing Field
No matter how small your business, local marketing services allow you to reach your customers easier. Even if you don’t have a large budget, you’ll be able to get to know your customers on a more personal level.
Potential buyers will go through the search results and read reviews on sites. Through local digital marketing, you’ll provide a link that potential buyers can check out.
Easier on the Wallet
Local digital marketing is either free or low-cost. You could place your business’s information on the Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). There’s also Yahoo! local.
Local businesses tend to appear higher in search results as well. You’ll be able to promote yourself and have potential higher traffic, whether on or offline.
Attract New Customers
Once you fill out your business through Google Business Profile, potential customers can find you. For example, if you have a local store, they might pop in and buy from you. You’ll also be able to save money on expensive PPC (pay-per-click) ads through search engines.
Combine it with ads, create posters, templates, flyers, and don’t forget about direct mail. Direct mail, in combination with online marketing, complement each other.
Unique Benefits
Through local business marketing, you’ll find out what works and doesn’t. Use social media, email, and blogs to keep in touch with local buyers.
You can also combine it with online marketing for the most effective results. For example, attracting potential buyers through search engines. Local digital marketing also allows you to connect with other businesses and develop partnerships.
Grow with Google
Digital marketing for local businesses allows you to better understand Google and build an online presence. You could work with a digital marketing professional to help you optimize your website for local SEO.
First, create a business listing and website. Next, begin advertising to find more customers.
Create Local Business Pages
When people type in the product you sell plus the area or region, you’re more likely to show up. Facebook Pages, Google+ Local Pages, Bing Places for Business, and others could help you stand out.
You’re helping potential customers find your business and build your presence online. Each month, schedule a time to update and make changes to these pages as necessary. Never create and then forget about them.
Optimize these listings with local keywords. Then your business is more likely to pop up.
When you head to Google, you can test it out. Type in Italian food near me. Notice how three relevant companies pop up.
When you have a Google Business Profile, this allows you to do the same. Also, ensure that you add photos to appeal to your audience.
Encourage Local Reviews
97% of people read reviews of local businesses. In addition, 90% will read online reviews to decide whether to buy a product.
Reviews help your business grow and continue to increase in importance. You could also reach out to locals and see if they’d be willing to leave you a review after trying your product or service.
Reviews will boost your SEO (search engine optimization, it’s a free way to be found through Google) and establish social proof. Include a link in all emails within your signature and on your site.
Local SEO keywords will help buyers find you too. Test to see which keywords work best. You can also use geographic targeting in ads to focus on a specific location.
Have Other Businesses Link Back to You
Go to local events in your area to build connections with local businesses. Again, this is much easier to form connections in person than online.
Local businesses can then link back to your site (known as backlinks). Google uses backlinks to determine how valuable a website is. Remember that it’s based on quality, not quantity.
Check out .org and .gov sites in your area to see if you can also list your business there. Make sure to link back to various local sites as well.
Why Use Local Marketing Services?
You’ll work with a company that has experience working locally. They’ll understand a local audience and what will help you stand out. If you have questions and aren’t sure how to begin, they’ll guide you in the process.
Understanding the Benefits of Local Marketing
After exploring this post, you should better understand how local marketing works and how you can stand out from the crowd. Then, take your time deciding what next steps to take. You can also read our Ultimate Guide to Local Marketing to help you get started.
Whether you’re short on time or aren’t sure how to proceed, local marketing services could help. Talk to our team today, and we’ll help put you on the map!
If you have any questions along the way, we’re happy to help. From lead generation to local marketing and website design, we’re your one-stop shop for your needs.
