Local Search
Local search is a new and powerful venue that can help locally-based businesses attract new customers. Local search directories are very much like yellow page phone books on steroids. Not only do they provide physical location and contact information, businesses can provide exclusive offers, driving maps, and relevant information to boost brand recognition.
Local search offers multiple benefits to both businesses and consumers. Directories provide an additional marketing tool that is affordable and effective. The major search engines of Google, Yahoo, and Bing have implemented local listings, but there are hundreds of niche directories as well.
Nearly all local listing directories are free to use; making this one of the most valuable online marketing strategies offered. Once business listings are created, companies can specify key search categories for their company to expand their reach to the target market.
Local search directories allow companies to enhance listings with photos, logos, menus, special offers, and more. Companies engaged in mobile marketing can receive a mobile Web address and QR code so customers can learn more about the business and services offered via handheld mobile devices.
Another great feature of local search is the majority of directory providers offer the option of offering deals that can be promoted through social media outlets such as Twitter and Facebook. Businesses that engage in social media marketing will find this to be a time-saving feature because deals are automatically posted to their business accounts.
Since listings are categorized by region, local search helps businesses be found in search directories more easily. This in turn, helps to drive targeted traffic to the company's front door or website.
Nearly all local search providers allow customers to provide product reviews and testimonials about the business. This feature can have advantages and disadvantages because people can write bad reviews whether they are warranted or not.
Business owners ought to develop a reputation management system to track what is being said about their business online. Fortunately, there are several companies that offer reputation management software that makes the task easy.
Not only does reputation management software help track customer reviews, it also tracks copyright infringements, intellectual property, and abuses of brand identity. Many people fail to understand the depths of destruction that can be caused by negative reviews or theft of product ideas. In today's competitive marketplace, no business can afford to go without reputation control software.
It is vital to establish an online marketing plan that includes the major local search directories, along with niche directories and lesser known providers. An easy way to locate available directories is to conduct an online search using the keyword phrase of 'local search directories' plus the state or city where the business is located. Another option is to add the type of business, such as 'local search directories restaurants'.
Publishing business information to a variety of directories is an essential step in link building online strategies. Acquiring an abundance of inbound links is vital for improving search engine rankings.
The process of entering information to dozens of local listing directories can be cumbersome, but is worth the effort. Companies that plan on integrating several types of online advertising strategies may find it advantageous to outsource local search projects to an online marketing company such as Online Marketing DNA.
We provide exclusive, result-driven marketing packages to companies that are tired of poor results. Our proven system helps businesses expand their online presence, build long-lasting customer relationships, and enhance brand awareness.
In addition to local search, we offer a variety of SEO marketing packages geared toward helping companies reach their short- and long-term goals. We work side-by-side with each client and are limited to the number of companies we can work with to ensure they receive our undivided attention.
We invite you to browse our offerings to determine if OMDNA is suited for you. Once you take a look, we encourage you to contact us to arrange a consultation. We look forward to being your online marketing provider.
