Do you run a local store or business? And do you know why it is important to be online? It's because people are online and they regularly search for businesses and answers to their daily curiosities. From shopping to groups and forums for recommendations to connecting with others, people are finding all these and more online. 

You should consider a local marketing strategy that targets consumers and customers within a certain radius of the physical location(s) of your business. It can work nicely for any business that has a physical location and it’s particularly important for locally-based businesses whose primary business happens face to face and the person must be present.

Start with a Website

To be part of this fast-paced world, you must have a business website. Since everyone is online these days there are many benefits you can gain from having a website.

Thanks to the evolution of technology and free website builders, building your own personal website has never been easier.

A website can be your most important marketing asset. Potential customers may contact your business and make their decisions to buy based on the availability of your products and the quality of your website - either based on the graphic design or informational aspects. Prospective employees often review websites in detail before submitting a resume, and potential suppliers study websites to determine a business' validity and product range.

When you develop your website, make sure your content is kept up to date long after the launch. An outdated website can reflect poorly on your business. Don't forget to increase the value of your website by including the following.

Your website should contain:

1. Your story

This background is important mostly for brand new businesses to start building trust with customers. Show off your business' brand and values in an authentic way.

2. Product and Service Information

It's obvious: by describing and showing what products and services you offer, you can pique your visitors' interest to learn more.

3. Location and Hours of Operation

This should be pretty easy to find on your website.

Include information about what markets you can serve. Let's say you run a bistro that delivers baguettes – there are geographic limitations as to who you can accept as a customer. Indicate on your website that you can only accept orders within a certain area. In addition to providing this information on your website, you should also review and add information to your Google My Business profile.

4. Contact Information

You never know who might find you :) Adding in a simple contact form to your website is better than just publishing your business email address and phone number.

5. Images

Make it real! Show your products, yourself, your office, and staff so that everyone knows who it is about.  People like to connect with people, not just some random store telling them to buy stuff!

6. Social Media Accounts

Integrate them into your website by using icons and including links.  You can also ask your website visitors to connect with you.

7. Testimonials/Reviews

Ask for a quote and the permission to publish often.  Who doesn’t love to read the reviews before committing to buying a product or trusting a brand or company?

8. A Call to Action

Push them to connect with you. Add a button such as a newsletter sign up form, or the option to follow your business on social media.