The vital importance of having a strong local presence
In my last blog post, I spoke about the importance of investing in your local presence on Google as well as Bing. This can be one of the simplest, yet cost-effective pieces of marketing activity you will ever make! Why? Because it should cost you nothing yet can deliver instant results.
Get noticed on Google and Bing
First off, it is vital that you claim and verify what is called your Google Business Profile. This is your dashboard for Google and allows you to update your preview, read and respond to reviews, update your services, measure the performance of your site and advertise locally.
Not only is a completely free to create and use, you don’t even need to have a website! In fact, Google Business Profiles can sometimes appear higher than actual web page on search results. Plus, you can even connect your social media accounts to enhance your online visibility.
At the same time, don’t forget your presence on the second most visited search engine after Google, Microsoft’s Bing. You can claim your Places for Business profile in much the same way as with the Google one.
Have a nap
Make sure your Name, Address and Phone number (NAP) are clearly listed on your website. Plus try and use local keywords in your page titles and your content. Don’t forget too, that your site really needs to be mobile friendly as the majority of web users now browse on phones or tablets.
Get reviews
Google reviews are some of the most valuable pieces of what is termed ‘user generated content’. Instead of you telling the world how great your product or service is, encourage your clients or customers to give their honest opinion.
Make it really easy for them to give you a review by creating a QR code linking to your Google Business then popping this onto a PDF which you can print off, mount on the wall or send in an email.
All your customers need to do is scan the QR code with their phone, give as many stars as they deem appropriate and write a short recommendation. The whole process should take less than a minute and will make a real difference to both your visibility and credibility.
Remember, if you don’t ask you don’t get. So don’t be shy.
Build links locally
It pays to spend time getting yourself listed in places like Yelp, Yellow Page as well as Bing Places. Do also reach out to other local businesses and influencers in order to strengthen your relationships and ask them to mention your website on their own online channels. These are known as backlinks as will strengthen you authority on Google.
Be content
When you are posting on your website – be this a blog or updating your pages – make sure you include references to local landmarks, businesses, organisations or events as this will help index your website further.
Get yourself on the map
Make it really easy for people to find you by adding Google Maps to your website and if possible, ask them to check in when they arrive at your premises. Also, don’t forget Apple Maps. Use Apple Business Connect to establish a presence on this app.
Ask for help
Do you like what you’ve read here but don’t know where to start? Why not book a 1-2-1 session with one of our knowledgeable and friendly advisers. Just bring your laptop plus your log-in to Google and either Greg or Jenica will guide you through all the steps listed above.
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