Get Your Local Business Found Online With SoLoMo

I always enjoy the looks that I receive from clients when I mention "SoLoMo". I can only imagine what they are thinking ("has he finally lost his mind?" Comes to mind a lot). In fact, I've memorised the explanation and have learned to quickly throw it out as soon as I bring it up. Still, SoLoMo is my favorite marketing method for local businesses, mainly because of the success that it has brought our clients, so it's a conversation that must be had with each and every local business owner that comes through our doors.

So, what the heck is SoLoMo?

SoLoMo is an acronym that stands for Social, Local, Mobile, and it taps into the buying patterns of more that 80% of consumers in today's connected world. Here's how it works:

Social

How many times have you scrolled your Facebook or Twitter feed and saw one of your contacts (or maybe you've even done it as well?) asking others about the best "insert cuisine here" restaurants in the area? Or how many times have you checked online reviews on Facebook, Google, Yelp etc. before going to a local business? I'll bet you're just as guilty as the other 62% of all online shoppers who do the exact same thing. And of that 62%, 75% of them end up clicking through to the business's website in the process.

Having a social presence online is no longer a choice for local businesses. Nearly EVERYONE has a smartphone these days and has near-instant access to information on any business in their local area. If your business isn't in that mix, you're going to lose customers to the ones that are... lots of customers.

Local

Local Businesses: Don't Neglect Your Online Reputation

The one thing every business relies on the most to win over customers is their reputation. If your company image isn't a good one, then you're going to forever suffer with gaining the trust of your audience. And if that's the case, good luck with converting them into customers. Local businesses should definitely take heed, especially since a lot of mobile device users are using the Web to find local businesses to shop at. Your online reputation management strategy is key for increasing foot traffic, don't overlook this!

No Business is Perfect

Every company has its share of negative reviews circulating the Internet, but this shouldn't deter you from getting a hold of what people see about your brand on the Web. The idea here is to try and resolve issues that are within reason. It will help you to possibly win back a customer you would have otherwise lost and it shows others reviewing the conversation that your brand is willing to go over and beyond to rectify mistakes. It's a win-win-win situation - the customer gets what they want, you win back their trust and you possibly get the business of new prospects.

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7 Effective Strategies on Marketing Your Business Locally

When I was studying for my business degree and before my company was formed, I was in need of an outlet to be around other like-minded women. Years previous I was a member of the local Valley Women's Network so revisited their luncheons. Even though funds were very tight at the time, it was important for me to have some human interaction - even if only once a month. Little did I know, going to these meetings ended up being the catalyst for our birth.

During this time I connected with women entrepreneurs who were either eager to start a new business or take their business to the next level. Being the former webmaster for the Vancouver Sun and Province, it was a natural thing for them to ask me questions about branding and websites. I was more than happy to share my knowledge. Eventually conversations evolved into them hiring me so they could get the help they wanted with their marketing presence. The next thing I knew I was in business as a web developer!

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11 Things You Should Do to Build an Awesome Local Presence

Local is all the rage these days as more and more businesses realise the importance of nearby audiences for more opportunities. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that your website is taking advantage of the best options for local prospects.

1. Optimise your website content

To attract a local audience, you need to look trustworthy and professional. Start by making sure that your website content is fully optimised. Include concise and relevant information, such as your locations, contact numbers and email, as well as an interactive map showing where you can be found. Showcase customer stories, FAQs and a blog to have a more personal approach.

2. Go mobile

According to Google and Nielsen, 75% of mobile searches for local stores and services lead to a store visit, a purchase, more research, or a call. This undeniable opportunity cannot be missed by local SME's. Make sure to incorporate mobile response into your game.

3. Get found in listings and directories