Local Search Trends Small Businesses Need to Know
In today’s digital age, the internet has taken over as the most powerful marketing channel. Long gone are the days where the television, magazines, and radio ruled the world. Today, you need to be found online when customers are searching. That’s what makes understanding local search and SEO so powerful.
Research and Reviews Matter for Boise businesses
Your buyers are interested in doing research, and that includes reviews. Google Maps and Yelp are two giant sources that they will use to make their final decision. Customers are often influenced by these reviews and ratings thanks to the powers of social proof and human psychology. They’ll even try to get a price from these reviews before even visiting your business.
In terms of your local marketing, it means you should have information and reviews at the ready so your customers don’t feel you are not up to their standards. Put together a package of info that presents you as the experts in a positive light, but make sure to keep it accurate.
Mobile marketing is the New Game
More customers than ever are finding businesses from their mobile phones, even more than desktop. Sites like Yelp have optimized their marketing for mobile users so it’s easier to navigate and get information on the go.
What this Means for Local Marketing
In this world where multiple screens are a reality, you need to have choices for your customers. Don’t just have marketing on one or the other. Deliver great, responsive mobile experiences to your customers so they want to keep coming back and tell their friends.
Voice Search for local stores
If you have ever used Cortana, Siri, or Google then you have probably used voice search. Smartphones are the big driver, since everyone essentially has the wealth of knowledge and information at their fingertips today. Almost half of voice searches have local intent, meaning you need to be ready to capture incoming searches whether your customers are looking for you through tv, cars, or their phones.
What this Means for Local Marketing
Voice search is becoming a big factor in how search engines rank your site. You need quality content to improve your search results and lead visitors to go to your site. That way, you can convert these leads.