Local SEO is an efficient way to advertise your business online. It helps companies improve their products and services to local customers at the exact time they’re looking for them. Local SEO uses a variety of strategies — getting your site ranked on search engines like Google, business directories such as Yelp, Superpages, Foursquare, Yellowbook, Google My Business listing, Bing Places for Business page, localized content on your website, online reviews and other strategies.

Millions of customers use local search & social media every day to find the best local businesses in their area. You can help increase your chances of getting noticed by these potential customers. Local SEO services offer a very targeted online marketing approach, (it’s not like dropping off brochures on front-porch steps or paying for an ad in a local newspaper that may or may not is seen by a potential customer that is interested in your products or services). Local SEO companies allow you to position your business on search engines and other digital marketing platforms, so you’re seen by potential customers — on their terms.

Why local SEO services can help you attract new customers

Local customers are turning to the internet to find local businesses – on desktop AND mobile: Yes, some people still use printed phone books, but more and more people are turning to the internet to find information about local businesses.

Local search marketing is highly targeted and timely: The highly rated reason for the local search is to find a specific business. The second most common idea is to search a product or service. Many local searchers are looking for a particular business’ name, but many who search don’t have a specific business in mind when they begin their hunt. By using local search tactics, you can better position your business and promote what you have to offer to local customers when they’re looking for your type of business.No better time to connect with a potential customer than when they need you.

Highest conversion levels of all local advertising channels: Online directories (like Yelp, CitySearch, Foursquare, etc.) display a business’ name, address, phone number and sometimes additional information (like a menu or business description.) Local directories dominate the first page of many local search results. Local directory marketing (just one of many Local SEO strategies) has a higher conversion rate than other more traditional advertising options – up to 50% conversion on some directories.

Mobile Internet is growing: More and more customers use mobile phones or tablets to find the best local businesses while they’re on the go. In fact, mobile digital media time in the US is now higher at 51% compared to desktop use at 42%. Local SEO covers both PC and mobile internet access meaning you never miss out on a potential customer.

Excellent return on investment: Unlike traditional advertising (e.g., local newspapers, leaflets, direct mail, etc.), with local SEO there is little-wasted exposure. You reach potential customers when they need you — not when they don’t. This makes Local SEO both efficient and cost-effective.

Only 44% of businesses have claimed their Google My Business listing: Google My Business is a free listing that Google makes available for almost any store. Getting listed on Google My Business can help increase your chances of showing up high in local search results on Google. Also, many local companies haven’t figured out the importance of online marketing yet. Many of the best local SEO opportunities are FREE (for now!): It’s free to claim your listing on Google My Business, Bing Places for Business and on hundreds of other online business directories.

Only 20% of Adults Get News from Print Newspapers: Traditional advertising media is declining. In fact, fewer and fewer people are reading local newspapers. Recent figures show some local newspapers have lost 80% of their readership in the last 20 years. Why? Because more and more people are turning to the internet for their local news and information about local businesses.

88% of Local Consumers Trust Online Business Reviews: Word of mouth is a significant factor in the success of many local businesses. To increase your business’s online reputation, ask trusted customers to leave a positive review about your business online — and attract hundreds of new customers.

Local Customers Rely on the Internet to get Information About Your company: These days people depend on the internet to find information about all types of products and services. If your business isn’t located in local search results, you’ll miss out on new customers. Implementing a variety of Local SEO strategies for your business can help you show up on the internet map for future customers to see!