Whether you’ve been in business for several years, or launched a new business in the past month, it’s a thrilling experience! (Believe us, we know!) But getting noticed locally is the real game-changer; it drive new levels of growth for long-standing businesses, and for new businesses just starting out, the visibility and awareness are invaluable. In this quick guide Local SEO, I’ll break down essential strategies to ensure your new business hits the ground running (we’re employing the same tactics ourselves). From enhancing your Google Business Profile to social media engagement, this guide simplifies the steps for boosting local visibility.

1. Google Business Profile (GBP) Optimization

Getting your new business noticed begins with Google, as they own over 88% of the search engine share in the United States, with over 95% of mobile search share (which is where the majority of local business searches are done). Let’s dive into how optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) can make a big impact on local visibility.

Key Steps:

• • Set an opening date on GBP to get a head start
  • Add accurate details and engaging images
  • Plan promotions leading up to the grand opening

Watchouts:

• • Keep all information consistent across platforms – primarily, this is your NAP (Business Name, Address, and Phone Number)
  • Respond to customer reviews, both good and bad – work to take bad reviews offline with your message to resolve it out of the public eye

2. Website and Local Landing Pages

Your website is the digital face of your business. Let’s explore simple steps to make it a local SEO powerhouse.

Key Steps:

• • Optimize for local keywords and mobile users – primarily, try to work in your service area or primary city you serve
  • Use local business schema markup for better search visibility – tip: there are TONS of elements, in the beginning keep it simple and stick to every day business facts like operation hours, address, phone number, and reviews
  • Put “coming soon” messages where visitors can’t miss them.

Watchouts:

• • Keep the website fresh with regular updates – this can be with UGC (user generated content) or with blog posts
  • Share unique details about your location to stand out – are you located by a commerce center or historic site?

3. Building Local Backlinks

Unfortunately, Local SEO isn’t just about your website (though it is a major piece of the puzzle). Getting noticed online is also about building local backlinks can boost your local presence.

Key Steps:

• • Get backlinks from local directories, local charities, and other local organizations; sometimes it is a pay-to-play effort
  • Partner with local businesses for online mentions
  • Don’t forget to use Bing Places; it may not have tremendous search share, but it is a highly reputable link

Watchouts:

• • Check that backlinks are from trustworthy sources, and if possible, take a monthly or quarterly review of where those backlinks are coming from

4. Comprehensive Grand Opening Strategy

Your grand opening deserves a grand plan. This is where connecting your digital ecosystem will have a bigger payoff and impact for your local business. Let’s break down a simple strategy to make a splash in your local market.

Key Steps:

• • Run local ads for immediate visibility – set up a 5 to 10 mile radius around your location; not only will this help drive visibility with local consumers likely to visit, but will help alleviate the upfront costs a bit
  • Depending on the type of business, there are several versions of local ads that you can run: Local Service Ads, Local Map Ads, and standard, geo-targeted paid search

Watchouts:

• • Find the balance between promoting and overwhelming.
  • Don’t target your competitors yet, tempting as it might be

5. Social Media Marketing

Social media is your megaphone to the local community, using it effectively for your new business.

Key Steps:

• • Plan a consistent posting schedule – there are tons of free content calendar resources available online
  • Use location-based hashtags for more views
  • Monitor social media analytics to create better insights and strategies

Watchouts:

• • Quality over quantity when posting – goes without saying it’s not about  100 “ok” posts, if you can create two (2) amazing posts to drive more interaction and engagement
  • Be judicious with your hashtag use – tempting as it might be to use EVERY semi-relevant hashtag, narrow it down to 1 -3 of the most impactful

6. Email Marketing

Building relationships before your doors open is key. Let’s explore how email marketing can help you connect with potential customers, as well as any existing customers through CRM.

Key Steps:

• • Segment your email list for targeted messages
  • Offer exclusive promotions to subscribers
  • Keep an eye on email analytics for insights

Watchouts:

• • Respect user privacy and data regulations
  • Avoid bombarding subscribers with too many emails

7. Public Relations (PR)

Let the community know you’re here. Learn how public relations can elevate your new business.

Key Steps:

• • Partner with local influencers for visibility
  • Get coverage in local media for your grand opening
  • Respond graciously to press coverage

Watchouts:

• • Be ready for both positive and negative press
  • Ensure your PR aligns with your brand values

8. Opening Day and Beyond

Let’s ensure everything runs smoothly and that your business stays in the spotlight.

Key Steps:

• • Encourage customers to share their experiences online
  • Consider special events or promotions on opening day
  • Continuously monitor your website and campaigns

Watchouts:

• • Have a plan for any technical hiccups on opening day
  • Address negative experiences promptly to maintain a positive image

Navigating local SEO doesn’t have to be complicated. With these simple steps, your new business can shine in the local market. Keep an eye on what works, stay engaged with your community, and watch your business thrive locally.