3 Critical Local Business Search Tips from Google

Although WWW stands for World Wide Web, Google search has become a critical piece of marketing a local business. Why you ask? Because of the computers we carry in our pockets and purses every day. Thanks to smartphones, consumers have learned to turn to search engines to answer even the simplest questions, including questions about where they can buy what they need nearby. When Google detects the intent to make a local purchase based upon the search query used, it shows specific results designed to meet the searcher's need.

Local businesses can improve the results of their digital marketing efforts and increase the visibility of their websites if they understand the differences between local search results and other types of searches. These three tips can get you started: 

1.)    Smartphone owners turn to search first in a moment of need.

Every business owner should be thinking seriously about their search presence. Is your business visible at research and decision moments? Today's customers are curious, demanding and impatient. To meet the demands of today's customers, your business must do three things. First, you need to have content that answers specific, detailed questions. Using an SEO strategist can help you to discover what search terms potential customers are using to ask the questions you can answer on your site. Second, you must have a fast website that is mobile friendly. (We recommend that pages load in fewer than three seconds). And finally, make it easy to be found. Your website should make it easy to place an order, to make a reservation or schedule an appointment, for example. Do whatever you can to make doing business with your company easy -- and easier than doing business with your competition.

2.)    46% of all mobile searches are related to location

Google research shows that almost half of all searches are related to location. Remember, customers are impatient. They want what they want and they want it now. 

To facilitate this sense of urgency, prospective customers want to know if you're open at that exact moment, what your hours are, and to find out if you are "near me." Your customers are searching for you at the last minute to meet immediate demands. A local search strategy, including Google My Business can help you be found.

What is Google My Business (GMB)?

By definition, Google My Business is a tool for businesses and organizations to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. For example, if you search a company name the knowledge panel has common information for quick reference such as address and hours. If your business has not made the most of a Google My Business listing, here's how you can get started. 


 
Claim Your Business on GMB

Visit https://www.gybo.com/business to get started. Follow the steps to either claim a listing or set one up. Make sure to get your listing verified to unlock additional features. Once verified, fill out every option possible. Google has said a business that completes its listing is considered reputable, more likely to attract visitors and more likely to score a purchase.

Our client, Bartolotta Restaurant Group, takes every advantage of GMB by plumping its listings with information including address, hours, menu, reservation links, upcoming events, reviews and ratings.

Consequently, the info is displayed not only in the information box, but in organic results.

GMB also allows video uploads, COVID-19 updates and posts. Postings through Google My Business lets you publish your announcements, events, products, business info and offers and services directly to Google Search and Maps. By creating posts, you can place your timely content in front of customers when they find your business listing on Google.

3.)    PPC and SEO are still key components for any Local Business 

Local Pay-per-click (PPC) such as AdWords and Bing Ads can show your ads based on the geographic area you service. You can restrict your ads by county, city and even ZIP code. Text ads are triggered by keywords. For local PPC, some keywords are followed by the name of the city, such as "financial advisor Milwaukee."

In addition to using Google My Business, local SEO includes organic search results and business listings. Knowing how to use local ranking factors such as having a consistent NAP (name, address, phone) can help you achieve top results and get featured in carousel and other rich snippet opportunities.

In 2021, marketers should make local search a priority of overall marketing efforts and using Google My Business should be part of that strategy. Keep in mind a successful local approach considers all aspects of digital marketing and how they work together. If you have questions about how your local business can maximize Search Engine Optimization or a pay-per-click strategy to reach your target market in an efficient and effective way, give us a call. 

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