Being a local business has a lot of perks, while carving
out an online niche may not be one of the first to pop into your mind, maybe it
should. Social networks, especially Google+ are filled with potential customers
looking for local businesses to interact with. Consider the following 5 tips
for thriving as a local business on Google+.
1.
Think
About Your Customers
Yes, the current online trend is to optimize listings
and websites for search engines. This is important, without SEO, it’s hard for
customers to stand a shot at finding you, and organic searches are less likely
to pan out in your favor.
However, in this piece, we’re talking about Google+, not
the Internet
at large. Because of this, it’s important to optimize your site
for your customers—the people you’re hoping come across your listing and take
the time to look into what you have to offer. Use natural language and focus on
what your business has to offer. Engage, share new content regularly and work
to build connections. This is what really matters.
2.
Customize
One thing is for sure, the more personal you can be, the
more appealing your brand will look online. Take the time to customize your
Google+ local page to differentiate your company from your primary competitors
with great photos and a fully filled-out profile. Think about it, what makes
one Amish furniture store
in Smithville, Ohio stand out from another? What does one
running shoe store in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania have that another does not?
Customization can go a long way.
Consider using banner ads, photos and videos that give
an idea of what your brand is all about, tailor your content
toward your local community and promote relevant information. Customization
matters for local businesses looking to get ahead online.
3.
Don’t
Waste Your Time
This should go without saying, but, if your target
market doesn’t spend their time on Google+, all of the tips in the world will
not help you grow your business on the network. Just do the minimum required to
make your listing look good and move on.
Do a little research.
Find out where your customers spend their time online. For example, if you’re
looking to connect with crafty stay at home moms, Pinterest might be more
appropriate. It all depends on what you have to offer, and who is a part of
your target demographic. Know this before placing a strong effort on Google+ or
any other social network, but, remember, Google+ can influence search results,
so do not discount it; use your research to determine how much time the network
deserves on your end.
4.
Keep
Up With Your Listing
Like all other social networks, or most of them at
least, a successful Google+ account is dependent upon commitment. If you’re not
willing to put time into updating your content and modifying your listings, it
might be better not to create an account in the first place.
Take the time to update your listings on a regular basis
and to monitor that listing’s performance to determine whether your efforts are
paying off or not. If a listing has a high page rank, let it be; there’s no
reason to mess with a good thing. In either case, keep up with your account,
this is critical.
5.
Use
Reviews to Your Advantage
Customers, especially local customers, tend to rely upon
online reviews when choosing new businesses to work with. This is where your
Google+ account can really work to your advantage; these reviews are also
helpful for improving your search rankings.
Take the time to request
reviews from your customers, in person and through an email
marketing campaign. Thank those who take the time to recognize your business;
they’re doing more of a service to you than they’re probably aware of.
Whatever you do, Google+ can play a major role in
increasing your online presence, especially if you’re a local business. Get
started by taking full advantage of the network and following the tips above.
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