Let’s face it: Local SEO is the kingpin of digital marketing for small businesses. But when we dive into how consumers actually use business directories, a ton of businesses are missing out on easy wins. If you think you’ve covered your bases with Google My Business and a Facebook page, think again. The Business Listings Trust Report 2021 dropped some eye-opening stats, and we’re here to break it down GMB Fox style.
So, What’s the Big Deal?
94% of consumers have used a business information site to find out about a local business in the last 12 months. And we’re not just talking about new businesses—they’re looking up the same businesses they already know, too.
“Your business listing isn’t just a formality—it’s a trust signal. Get it wrong, and your potential customer is bouncing faster than you can say ‘404 Error.’”
Inaccuracies in listings? You’re toast. A whopping 63% of consumers said they’d avoid doing business with a company if they found incorrect information. Think about it: If your phone number is wrong or your hours don’t match up, you’ve just lost over half of your potential customers before they even set foot in your store.
The Platforms That Matter Most
We all know Google dominates the search game, but did you know that 89% of consumers have used one of Google’s search tools in the past year? Facebook comes in second at 48%, but it’s not just about the big dogs. Niche platforms like Yelp, Instagram, and even Siri are making a serious play.
Here’s the kicker: 91% of people using Siri are essentially pulling from Google’s data. So even if you don’t care about voice search, you need to care about how your Google My Business listing looks.
How Inaccuracies Are Hurting You
Imagine this: A customer Googles your business, drives 20 minutes, only to find that your store is closed when you said it’d be open. Frustrating, right? This is more common than you think. In fact, 81% of consumers have been misled by incorrect listings, which ultimately leads to them jumping ship to a competitor.
It’s not just bad hours either. Consumers are hitting up listings to check everything—your products, safety measures, contact info, and more. Get any of this wrong, and it’s not just a bad customer experience—it’s business suicide.
Fix It or Lose Business
Want a scary stat? 85% of consumers found incorrect or incomplete info on a business listing in the last year. Now, if that’s not lighting a fire under you, this will: 77% said they’ve seen conflicting info across multiple platforms.
Look, trust is the currency of the modern digital marketplace. And you’re essentially telling your customers, “We don’t care enough to get the details right.” If that’s the message you’re sending, you might as well shut down now.
Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore This
Let’s make it clear: Having your info accurate and up-to-date across every platform isn’t optional anymore—it’s survival. If consumers find incorrect information, 63% will actively avoid doing business with you. It’s like shooting yourself in the foot when your competitor is standing right there, guns blazing.
Here’s what you need to do:
Audit your listings on every platform that matters (Google, Yelp, Facebook, Siri, etc.).
Fix any inaccuracies immediately.
Maintain consistency—whether it’s your phone number, hours, or address, keep it tight.
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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