As a small business, you may be wondering how to get started with local online marketing. After all, large businesses have entire teams devoted to this task, and their strategies can seem out of reach for smaller companies with limited resources.
But don’t despair! Local online marketing is within your reach, and there are many simple (and free) things you can do to get started.
Here, we have compiled a list of ten local online marketing tips for small businesses.
Let’s jump right in!
10 Local Online Marketing Tips For Small Businesses
- Optimize Your Instagram Bio
It is common for people to check out local businesses on Instagram before visiting them. People like to check out new restaurants and shops on this social network first: especially Gen X, Millennials, and younger. Therefore, you want to ensure your Instagram is prepared to receive them. Your feed should be aesthetically pleasing and showcase your business positively which starts with the bio.
Your bio should include:
- A call-to-action (“Shop now,” “Come in today,” etc.)
- Your location
- Any relevant hashtags related to your business or city
- Get Listed on Google My Business
Google is obviously the largest search engine, and as such, you want to make sure your business is easily found when people search for it. You can do this by claiming your Google My Business listing. This is a free and easy way to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. Once you’ve claimed your business, take some time to fill out as much information as possible and add high-quality photos.
- Optimize Your Website for Local SEO
Local SEO is a bit different from your average SEO strategy. With local SEO, you want to focus on optimizing your website for searches related to your location. This means adding your city or region to your titles, tags, and descriptions.
- Create Local Content
One of the best ways to show Google that you are a local business is by creating local content. This could be blog posts about local events, city guides, or even just mentions of your city or region on your website. By creating this content, you are more likely to show up in local search results.
- Build Local Citations
A citation is simply a mention of your business online, with your NAP (name, address, phone number). The more citations you have, the better. Google uses these to verify that your business is indeed located where you say it is. You can build citations by listing your business on directories and local listings sites.
- Get Reviewed on Google
Google reviews are one of the most important factors in local SEO. Make it easy for your customers to leave reviews by adding a link to your Google Business listing on your website and in your email signature. You can also send out review requests after a customer has made a purchase or had a positive experience with your business.
- Use Local Hashtags on Instagram
As we mentioned before, Instagram is a great platform for local businesses. In addition to optimizing your bio, you should also be using relevant local hashtags in your posts. This will help people in your area find your business when they are searching for things related to your products or services.
- Local Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are a great way to connect with people in your community. Look for groups that are relevant to your business or target market and become active in them. Share your expert knowledge, answer questions, and promote your business when appropriate.
- Local Keyword-Based Blogs
As with local content, blogs that focus on keywords related to your location are a great way to show Google that you are a local business. In addition to helping with SEO, these blog posts can also attract local customers and help you build relationships with other businesses in your area.
- Local Keyword-Based PPC
PPC (pay-per-click) advertising is a great way to attract local customers. By targeting keywords related to your location, you can ensure that your ads are only shown to people who are searching for businesses like yours in your area. This is an effective way to get in front of potential customers when they are already interested in what you have to offer.
These are just a few of the many ways you can optimize your local SEO strategy. By following these tips, you can help your business rank higher in search results and attract more local customers.
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