Local Directory Marketing

Many business owners assume that because their target audience is local, they don’t need to worry about having an online presence. This is flawed thinking and here’s why.

Statistics show that more than 60% of consumers are now beginning their searches for local services and products online. In these searches they typically use geographical terms or local designations such as “chicago dentist.” Even if they don’t include a geographical term, most search engines are designed to return local results for things that are inherently local, such as dry cleaners, chiropractors, optometrists, plumbers etc.

It’s clear that any small business that relies on local customers needs to be easy to find online. The best way to snag a top listing is to register with as many local directory options as possible such as Google Maps, Yahoo, Yelp and Hotfrog. The more sites you are successfully listed with, the higher you will rank on results pages. Combine these online listings with print ads and directories and you’ve got an unbeatable combination.

In this age of anytime, anywhere information access– it’s critical that your business information is updated constantly and that your newest offers are out there and easy to find.

Let’s take a closer look at how local search results work and how they can increase your traffic starting with Google Places.