Use the internet to attract local business.
February 2009
Most of your customers (82%) are using local search engines for business and shopping information. From their car, their homes and their hotel rooms, they type in the city and search for the product, food or services they need. New local search programs, especially for mobile devices, are being developed all the time! (Durwin) If your business is not listed, they will have to go to your competitors.
You don't need a website to get your name and location on the local search directories (although being able to show off your store, products and services online is a more satisfying and attractive experience for potential customers). In addition, most local directories will list your business for free. Your business information must be complete, verifiable and up-to-date. You can use coupons to track customers who use your online listing.
Maps and Directories
When a potential customer decides they want to eat, buy clothing or get a haircut in your town, all they have to do is pull over and open up GoogleMaps or MapQuest. If you include your web address (URL) in your business listing, they can click on the link and see youronline storefront,
current menu or other products. A website lets your business be represented as you want it to be.
Internet Yellow Pages
When people want to shop before they come, they can go to the online Yellow Pages, SuperPages or Bing.com to find your phone number and website.People under 40 don't use the Yellow Pages book anymore.
Marketing Matador
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
As you know, when people search on the world wide web for certain products and services, they usually only pay attention to the first page of results. As a local business, it's your ranking on the local search engines that matter. Your website can be optimized
for better search engine results. SEO includes such practices as:
- keeping your website content up to date (current menu, new products and services)
- using the best keywords for your business (this can be researched)
- getting links from other websites (ask your customers to post a review on Yelp.com, Facebook or Twitter)
- making sure your website is accessible by people with physical handicaps (your web designer is supposed to do this)