63% of Searches are Local

A recent study reported that 80% of all business is started with an online search. Whatever the number is, I think we can agree that the majority of business starts with an online search.

As people get used to and more experienced in searching online, the world is tilting to emphasize local search. People have learned to use their city name (and/or postal code) to narrow down their search results when they are looking for a business product or service. Nielsen/NetRatings recently reported that 51% of searches are done this way. Earlier research has shown local search is up to 63% of all searches.

For small business owners, that means one thing. If they can find your business with a search, you are way ahead of the competition.

If they can’t find you online, you are missing a lot of business!

Do you have a website? Is it rich in information and more than just an “online brochure?” Have you revealed a little about yourself and your team on the site… how you do business, what your location is like, drop dead easy directions to find you, what you carry, what your business values are, etc?

Did your web developer talk to you about keywords (the words that people type into a search engine to find your business) and how to use them on your site?

Is your site updated regularly? What is regularly you asks? Once a week, once a day… whatever you can manage! Quality content is the first key. Say something that your customers want to know!

Updating regularly is the second key. The third key is that the more you update, the more traffic you get.