How Local Businesses Can Optimize Their Websites

Despite the fact that a website is essential in any sized business’ marketing strategy, there are still local companies that struggle to create a successful website that can be easily found and utilized by current and new customers. If your business provides local services and products here are a few things to keep in mind in when enhancing your company’s website.

Become Mobile-Friendly

One major deterrent for online customers is a website that has not been optimized to be used on a mobile phone or tablet. The majority of people that are using a search engine today are looking for products and services that are available locally, yet many of these local websites cause frustration and lead to abandonment when they are not designed to also be used on a mobile device.  According to a study conducted by Google, 75% of users prefer a website that is mobile-friendly and 74% of users are more likely to return to a website that has been optimized for mobility – clearly demonstrating the need for local businesses to have a website that is considered mobile-friendly.

Visibly Display General and Contact Information

It is vital for a business to display all contact information in a conveniently found location on its website, not only to make it easier for your customers to get in touch with you but to improve your search rankings as well. In order to turn websites visit into sales, a business’ website must include an address, telephone number, and the hours of operation – otherwise those who visit your page online won’t know how to find you in person. Another important reason for a local business to display their contact information prominently is to improve how it is found by customers. A business that provides a website with the correct contact information across all its digital platforms will be considered a reliable and consistent source by various search engines, including Google.

Connect to Social Media Sites

Social media sites have the capability to really drive up the amount of traffic your website is seeing. Today’s consumers expect that all businesses have a presence on at least one social media platform that they can connect with or follow for more information about or special offers from your business.  Make this information easy to find by displaying buttons, which take visitors directly to your social media pages, right on the homepage of a business’ website or with the contact information.