If you run a brick-and-mortar business that largely caters to the local population, a strong online presence can help boost your business and get you greater returns. If your marketing strategy so far has focused mainly on offline promotions, it is time to invest in a robust digital marketing plan crafted to suit your business needs, goals and budget.
SEO, or search engine optimization, is a crucial tool for any business vying for online success and, even if you’re going to entrust the task to a digital agency, the following SEO tips will familiarize you with the process and enable you to make informed decisions.
Local citations are a must
A citation refers to any mention of your business along with its NAP (name, address and phone number) in an online business/trade directory or website that collates local business data. Local citations are a great way to improve your search engine rankings via credible listings.
If it sounds like too much work to do on your own, you can outsource the job to a local citation building agency.
Ensure that your page titles and Meta descriptions are optimized
Optimize the titles of your web pages using relevant keywords. Ensure that the description of your business that shows in search results is concise, crisp and includes the right keywords. Titles and meta descriptions play an important role in bringing traffic to your site. So make sure they look professional and form a good impression.
Another important point to bear in mind when writing descriptions is to use error-free language. Poor language not only puts off customers, it also makes search engines undermine your business.
Optimize your webpages
Every page on your business website. starting with the home page, should be optimized—but not stuffed—with keywords that best match the search queries used by online shoppers. Use specific rather than generic keywords and phrases on your product/service pages to enable search engines to find you.
Use long-tail and local keywords your target customers are likely to use when searching online for a product or service offered by you.
Make a profile on Google My Business
Getting on Google My Business should be a priority when you’re out to get your name up in local listings. Not only does this authenticate your business and you as its owner, it also plays an important role in your local SEO.
Consult an experienced digital marketing agency such as Digitrio.com.sg for expert tips on how you can best leverage SEO, social media marketing, email marketing, link building and other tools to gain more customers this year.
Use backlinks to boost your online presence
Backlinks are links on other websites that point back to your site. Tie up with relevant local websites and publish guest posts on those sites to reach your target audience and increase traffic to your own site.
Link building is beneficial for both parties. You can offer a local business a link back to their site in exchange for one on theirs.
