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If your business website is getting a lot of online traffic, it’s easy to lose touch with the local area where you live. You might think that it doesn’t matter about staying relevant in the community, but that viewpoint could mean you miss out on sales and other benefits. Here’s why keeping a relationship with locals is important as a business owner, and how to do so.
Build Customer Relationships
When your company is active in the community, whether it’s a one-person startup or a large team, that provides the opportunity to build deeper relationships with customers. That face-to-face interaction can sometimes mean more than an impersonal webpage. The customer or prospect can put a confident face to the brand name, and that can go far in making your product or service memorable.
Some ways to develop relationships in the immediate area of your headquarters include attending community sporting events and nonprofit fundraisers. You might also offer a loyalty program for those who live in the area where you’re based.
Has Your Business Created a Local SEO Plan Yet?
Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is a must-do for businesses who want to attract nearby customers. When they search online for the type of items or services that you offer, a strong Local SEO strategy ensures your business shows at the top of search engine results pages.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by what’s involved, but it doesn’t have to be that way. To be the most efficient and get the results you want in less time, follow a step-by-step Local SEO plan. One of the first things to do is a Local SEO audit, which includes doing a keyword review and running a speed test for your website.
Improve Brand Visibility and Trustworthiness
A locally-involved brand is one that gets exposure. That means customers recognize your business logo and other marketing materials when they see them. Along with that, you want them to think positively about your organization and consider what you offer to be quality. When taken as a whole, your brand is trustworthy in their eyes.
To become more visible and gain customer trust in the community, consider offering local promotions and hosting charity events. Another idea is to team up with other local businesses; perhaps you do cross-promotions, for example. Or, ask a local newspaper, TV station, or podcast if they’re interested in interviewing you as a business owner as a way to get more attention.
Change Parts of Your Business When Needed
The reality is that what the community needs will change over time. So, your business must adapt and change with it. That could mean changing a product to better meet what people are looking for, offering seasonal deals, or something else.
If you’re not sure what locals think about you, what better way to find out than to ask them? Try using surveys or focus groups to get a feel for the mood and perceptions.
Final Words: Getting Out in the Community is Important
Doing well depends on how much the community trusts your company and how well they think of you. By improving visibility, building relationships, using Local SEO strategies, and more, your business can become a stronger brand with loyal customers.
Image Credit: depositphotos.com
