When you’re in the game of local SEO, it’s no secret that the right online strategy can be a game-changer for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The digital landscape is shifting, and consumers are hunting for local products and services more than ever. But here’s the kicker: convincing SMB owners to invest in local search can sometimes feel like pushing a boulder uphill. Fear not, though! With compelling stats at your fingertips, you can make a rock-solid case for why they should jump on the local search bandwagon.
1. Local Consumers Rely on the Internet
Did you know that a staggering 97% of consumers utilize the internet when searching for local products and services? That’s a statistic from BIA/Kelsey that underscores the need for a solid online presence. In fact, 54% of Americans have swapped out traditional phone books for local search. The internet isn’t just a tool; it’s the go-to resource for consumers in search of businesses nearby.
2. More Users = More Searches = More Potential Customers!
In 2014, 140 billion local searches were expected across desktop and mobile platforms. Fast forward to now, and that number has likely skyrocketed. A whopping 95% of smartphone users have searched for local information at some point. More searches mean more opportunities for SMBs to be discovered by potential customers.
3. Having a Website is Essential
Here’s a little nugget of wisdom: 36% of respondents believe that a clear and professional website boosts a local business’s credibility. Moreover, 32% of consumers are more inclined to contact a local business if it has a website. If you think having a website is optional, think again—it’s a must-have!
4. Be Visible and Prominent on the Web
Visibility is everything in the digital world. In fact, 98% of searchers choose a business that appears on the first page of their search results. If your business isn’t visible, you might as well be invisible to potential customers.
5. Your Reputation Matters!
Reputation can make or break a business. 93% of consumers read local reviews before making a decision. Those reviews are your business’s online reputation, and they have a powerful influence on customer choices.
6. Consumers Trust What They Read Online
Here’s a stat that packs a punch: 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Your online reputation is your brand’s voice—make sure it’s a good one.
7. Quick Decision-Making
Did you know that 77% of smartphone users contact a business after searching for local information? Moreover, 59% of mobile users who look for local information visit that business on the same day. That’s right—consumers are ready to act, and they expect businesses to be there when they need them.
8. Existing Customers Are Searching for You
The primary reason people search online? To find the location of a known business. It’s essential for businesses to ensure they’re easily found online—especially by their loyal customers.
9. Your Customers Are Social
72% of SMBs are harnessing social media to promote their businesses, according to BIA/Kelsey. And here's a kicker: 70% of consumers are more likely to engage with a local business that has a robust social media presence. If your business isn't on social media, you might be missing out on a significant number of potential customers.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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