Your business, in order to thrive, needs to be seen and known among your target audience. If you own a small business, it is particularly important that you be seen and known in your area. For example, a small business in Greencastle should make efforts to expand its exposure within the Greencastle area.
Digital marketing is a phenomenal way for small businesses to improve their online visibility and get in front of their target audience. Thanks to a variety of online tools, you can even market yourself locally online. Here is how to market your business locally, and online.
Register your business in online directories.
If you want to know how to market your business locally online, the first step is to register your company in relevant online directories. For example, Google's My Business allows you to list your company, and its relevant details, like address and phone number, so you are easier to find in online searches and more likely to rank in local searches. Business profiles are free, making this a cost effective option for getting your name and information into the search engines and in front of local audiences. Other directories to consider using are the following:
- Google Places
- Review websites (such as Yelp)
- Industry directories
Embrace local SEO.
How to market your business locally online has to include the use of local SEO. This strategy involves emphasizing your company's location in order to get ranked in local search results. For example, emphasizing your Greencastle, IN, location can get you visibility in the search results for people looking for your type of business in the Greencastle area.
You will likely need the help of a professional digital marketing agency (like Distinct Web Design) in order to implement an effective local SEO campaign. However, the rewards can be worth it as you reach more people specifically looking for products and services like yours in your area.
Geotarget your Google and Facebook advertising.
If you want to know how to market your business locally online, consider geotargeting your online ads. This means narrowing down the exposure of your ads so they only appear to people within your preferred area.
For example, tell Google AdWords or Facebook that you only want your ads appearing to people within the Greencastle area, or who are searching for products and services within that area. Doing so ensures that only local audiences see your business, allowing you the local exposure you need. Plus, you save money by not paying for ads that do not reach the right audiences.
Update your website with your local information.
How to market your business locally online has to include getting the right information onto your website. For example, your name, address, and phone number (NAP) should be on every page of your site. In addition, mentioning your location periodically throughout your content can emphasize your locale.
These strategies ensure that visitors know where you are located, as well as make your website easier to place for search engines who are determining how to rank you for online searches. As a result, you are more likely to show up in local search results.
Use social media.
Finally, when you want to know how to market your business locally online, consider the use of social media. Joining the network that is most effective for your business, and building a strong presence there, can increase your visibility for your local area.
For example, if your Greencastle business choose to become active on Facebook, that platform will allow you to build a strong network of people connected in some way to both the Greencastle area and the products and services you offer. As a result, if done right, your social media presence can become a way to establish yourself as a valuable presence in the Greencastle community.
How to market your business locally and online does not have to be hard. However, you may want the help of a digital marketing agency like Distinct. We can help you identify the best local strategies for your business, as well as help you craft a digital marketing strategy that can improve your profits. Do not hesitate to reach out today.
