At the present, there are a total of 29.6 million businesses in the US. And among consumers, 63% make use of the Internet in order to find information about local companies with 82% using search engines to complete their search. What those figures basically mean is that local businesses are at a great advantage. With a huge chunk of the population relying on the Internet to make wise decisions regarding their purchases, it is crucial for businesses to have a strong online presence. And there are five easy ways to get business websites optimized in the bid to attract more customers.
1. Claim Your Profile
Some businesses underestimate the power of Google Places, Bing Local and Yahoo Local. Made specifically for local businesses, claiming your profile is a straightforward process which includes verification steps which involve a phone or a post card.
2. Ask for Reviews
The Internet has become extremely permissive that average, reasonable people can post their commentaries with just a few strokes of the keyboard and a click of the mouse. Consumers who are eager to rave about a local business and its amazing customer service as well as those who seek advice are sure to log into any of the numerous review sites in the World Wide Web. Ask your loyal and satisfied customers to give your business a boost by posting positive reviews for you.
3. Welcome Bad Reviews
Some business owners are paranoid about receiving bad reviews. But people basically know by now that there is no such thing as a perfect business. In fact, customers and prospects will appreciate your business so much more if you are responsive and helpful whenever a negative review has been posted.
4. Different Landing Pages for Multiple Locations
Local websites frown upon businesses which have more than one local listing. However, if there are two locations for your business then its fine if you claim more than one listing. But each listing should link to a different landing page and not to the same homepage. You can personalize that landing page according to the location of the business.
5. Treat Your Customers Right
This has been the first rule in any business owner’s manual. But with the advent of the Internet wherein people can badger you with negative comments which can be seen worldwide, you need to treat your customers a lot better. Walk the extra mile with your customers and you won’t have to worry about negative publicity.