Focusing on the particular location in internet searches is vital for many small businesses. In more than 95% of searches customers are requiring a certain mile radius or zip code. Being on the first page of local search results on Google, Bing, or Yahoo will deliver high-value customers to your business.
Search engines all choose results based on prominence, relevance, and proximity. The results are then organized by paid ads, places, and organic results. Developing a solid Local Search Optimization plan is critical to be successful in today’s competitive online search results business.
Local search takes into account information business owners put in their local profile, as well as information on the business’ website, and information it finds on other sites. While no one can control everything that appears on their local listing, business owners have to take steps to ensure that what gets listed is a good representation of the company.
1. Claim your profile
Create listing of your business at Google Places, Bing Local, and Yahoo Local. On your website, be sure to publish your local phone number and address on all pages of your website to reinforce your geographic location
2. Upload pictures
The local sites listing services like to provide their users with pictures of your business. To help ensure that they see good pictures, upload your own. They don’t have to be professional photos, but they will represent your business so make sure they are of good quality.
3. Ask for reviews
Many business owners are terrified with the possibility of negative reviews or complaints online. However, reviews are one of the most important parts of the decision making process when it comes to making a purchase. Besides that, reviews allow you to identify and reach out to unhappy consumers.
4. Multiple locations need multiple landing pages.
If the business has two locations, you should ensure that each location links back to a page on your website that is all about that location and what it has to offer.
5. Create a blog
Fresh content can greatly help your search engine rankings. Be sure to keep a regular weekly or monthly schedule to add new posts to your blog. Plus the feature of user comments on your blog posts also continually adds fresh content to your site. Search engines are sensitive to new user generated content, so the more your website has, the more likely it is your site will move up in the rankings.