Over the past decade, search engines have radically changed the way we search for information. When was the last time you pulled out a copy of the Yellow Pages? More likely you searched for information about a business on your computer or mobile device.

What makes local search so important?

According to Comscore and Google, 20% of desktop searches are for local information and businesses. When you consider the percentage of mobile searches with local intent, the percentage rises to 50 percent.

Google, Yahoo, Bing, and other search engines continue to tweak their results to include more emphasis on local. As mobile search continues to grow, local searches will continue to rise, based on current trends for mobile users.

How does local search relate to your business?

The potential for marketing your business to local customers is huge. Internet marketing is no longer just for the big players. Local businesses are now able to reach a targeted audience with a minimum amount of effort.

Simply adding your business information to multiple local business directories (such as Google Places, Yelp, etc.) can increase your exposure to new customers and boost your credibility online. Make sure your phone number, physical address (with map or directions), and operating hours are clearly and accurately displayed.

How are local search and mobile search related?

Consumers with mobile devices search for businesses and products on the go. Optimizing your restaurant for local and mobile search means that you can attract new customers searching for places to eat in your area, especially if they’re in an unfamiliar city or outside their usual stomping grounds.

Any business that serves the local population can benefit from staking a claim in local search engine results. According to a TMP/comScore report, 82% of local searches result in a phone call or visit to a local brick-and-mortar business. That’s more than enough incentive to optimize your business for local and mobile search.

Local Directory Listing Services – Minneapolis

Need some help getting your business up to speed on local and mobile search? We’d love to share more about how we can help you bring in more customers. Give us a call at (763) 548-2297 or contact us by email to get started. We are a Minneapolis marketing company that helps businesses grow through the power of the Internet.