Google Places & SEO

Why Your Business “Google Places” Needs Localized SEO

As the Internet evolves and internet users become more sophisticated, people are relying more on the Internet to find local services and products.  This is true for businesses that sell online and for those that have a brick-and-mortar business. The problem for a locally businesses is the intimidation of the shear size of the Internet. A locally based website often gets buried in search engines, just like as if they weren’t even there at all. Larger businesses (national and international sites) dominate the best broad search terms and phrases. Local seach marketing requires a completely different strategy.

Focus on Local Internet Users – Your Clients

Internet users are seeking local websites. Their search behaviors are becoming more sophisticated in order to find what they are looking for. A search optimization strategy that focuses on those local searchers will drive visitors to your site who are seeking specifically what you offer. This is the best type of traffic your site could possibly attract.

Targeting these searchers first requires your understanding of their online behaviors. Knowing how they are trying to find you will allow you to structure your online presence in a way that will allow your site to be found. Localized search optimization allows you to reach out to these potential customers. They are looking for you, now let them be able to find you.

Common Obstacles For Local Websites

If you are like most locally based businesses that have ventured onto the web to gain more exposure, you’ve purchased a basic website from a local web design firm or have tackled web design yourself. Many local business owners expect their snappy new website to automatically bring hundreds, if not thousands, of visitors and customers. They are sorely disappointed when it does not.

The primary reason the site receives little traffic is search engines barely know it exists, if they know at all. Many local websites are designed for good looks that impress the business owner. They are often not designed with search in mind as many web design companies are solely focused on design and know little about incorporating search optimization.

We find that most our clients are focused on running the day-to-day operation of their business, not running a website. Promoting a website online requires a different skill set many do not understand or have the time to learn. The Internet is still a relatively new, highly technological medium, and many people are unaware of how it operates. For this reason they don’t know where to start, or even ask the right questions, in order to get people to view their site.

Local SEO Brings Local Visitors to Your Website

Applying SEO strategies to your website will place your site right in front of the local internet users seeking your goods and services. Attracting search engine traffic is the most beneficial activity you could apply to your website. Natural (organic) web traffic will bring the most qualified type of visitor to your site – a visitor who is searching for your services or goods. They are motivated to buy, making them prime to convert into customers. A well optimized site should be both optimized for search, so visitors can find you, and optimized for conversion to turn the increased traffic into customers. This is why your website needs the services of Atlas Web Consulting.