Are you wondering if setting up a website to try and get on the front page of Google is worth the effort? Believe it or not, 97% of consumers learn more about companies online than anywhere else. If you want people to find your local business, you can’t afford not to have an online presence.
If you run a local business, you can’t underestimate the benefits that SEO brings. Keep reading to learn how to use local business SEO to generate more business.
Start a Google My Business Account
If you have a local business, there’s no getting around the need to show up on Google Maps. It’s the first place many consumers go to if they want to find a business in their area.
The problem is that Google doesn’t automatically set up your local business listing for you. They require you to create an account.
Set this up for yourself and get Google to send you your PIN code to your business address. Once you enter your code, you can set up your account and get listed on Google Maps.
Target Local Keywords
While you may eventually compete on general keywords, that won’t be the case on day one. Some general terms are very competitive. Your domain probably won’t have the authority to get on the first page of Google.
You can shortcut that process by targeting local terms. By doing this, you can target people in your local area looking for products and services near their residences. These terms are often easier to rank for and will provide you with real customers.
Get Backlinks
No matter how great your on-site SEO is on your website, it isn’t always enough. If you compete in an industry with many businesses, your website may not have enough authority to show Google that it deserves to be on the front page.
Companies like the ones on this site can help by providing backlinks to your website. Google considers backlinks like a vote for a website. If you get enough votes from a powerful domain, it will increase your website’s authority and push you up on the Google rankings.
Encourage User Reviews
Getting listed on Google Maps isn’t the only benefit you’ll see when you set up your listing on Google My Business. Once you have a business listing, you can use user reviews to help your SEO efforts.
Consumers like to support local businesses by leaving reviews for companies they enjoy. Google uses these reviews to sort map results. If you can gather a lot of great reviews for your company, it will help you stand out from your local competition.
Start Investing in Local Business SEO Today
You need every advantage you can get when trying to market your local small business. Investing in SEO isn’t only a cost-effective way to make your business known, but you’ll also see the results of your efforts in the future without investing much more money. Start the SEO process today to see the results for yourself.
Do you want to learn more small business marketing tips that will help you drive more sales? Head back to the blog to check out the newest marketing posts.
