If you are a small business looking for ways to trounce your
biggest competitors in the industry, it would be a big idea to focus first on
dominating the local market. The local strategy does not mean that you do not
have big dreams for your business, but it is rather a plan to gain that strong
foothold to the people closest to you before spreading your wings to the rest
of the world.
Businesses that have a strong presence and good reputation
in their localities have better chances of easily penetrating other areas. A
local marketing plan will therefore always get you great rewards as long as you
know how to best approach it. Below are some of the ways you can localise
marketing efforts to find strong grounding and foundation right at home before
exploring other markets.
1. Enhance Google
local profile
Google is the most popular search engine and using the local
tab you can ensure your business pops up in the searches relevant to your
location. The search engine makes it very easy for businesses to verify local
listings for their companies and from there you can improve your business
profile so as to attract new customers who find you from the local listings.
You can improve rankings by adding photos, videos and real time news whenever
possible.
2. Bring local media
on board
When it comes to marketing your business locally, you cannot
do much alone. Considering that local radio stations, TVs, newspapers and local
blogs are ever looking for some good content, consider sharing your knowledge
in line with your business to reach out to your target markets. Landing
interviews with the local media can go a long way in letting customers know that
you exist and the kind of products or services you have to offer them. Valuable
content will not only gain you exposure but will also set you apart as an
expert among listeners, viewers and readers and this is good for your business
any day.
3. Partner with other
local businesses
Business alliances can be tricky, especially with
competitors, but establishing them with local small businesses can gain you the
kind of exposure you need. Remember that these businesses interact regularly
with the same target audiences you are targeting. When you get into alliances
you can promote each other's business in the respective storefronts. You can
create referral programs to reward every customer refer from the local
businesses. You can also consider running joint promotions and events with
other businesses.
4. Create a strong
online presence
A huge number of people use the net to locate local
businesses and you want to ensure that you can easily be found. Avail your
business information on the relevant online yellow pages and list the business
on the county business website and other listings. When thinking online
presence you really cannot forget social media platforms. Make proper use of
every online resource open to you to gain market base for your business and you
will grow.
By Satvik Mittal - Article Source: EzineArticles.com/9658695
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