5 Tips to Increase In-Store Traffic With Local SEO

SEO

August 8, 2023

Did you know that 76% of people who use their smartphones to search for things nearby end up going to a physical store within just one day? This highlights the importance of Local SEO and how helpful it can be for bringing more customers into your retail store. Nowadays, it's not enough to only have a physical store; you also need to make sure people can find you online. 

By using good strategies for Local SEO, you can attract more customers to your store. If you work with a company that specialises in Local SEO, they can help you take steps to get more people to visit your store. Let's go through some of the best ways to use Local SEO to bring more people to your store!

Why is Local SEO Important for Stores without Online Shops?

In the past, only businesses that sold things online focused on making their websites show up in search results. But now, even if you have a physical store, you can use SEO techniques to reach a larger audience and get them to visit your store. When you make your online information better, you show up more often when people search for local stores. This increases the chances that people will find you and come to your store. Local SEO is especially useful because it encourages people to actually visit your physical store. Once they're in your store, it's easier to convince them to buy something.

How to Use Local SEO to Get More Visitors:

1. Make Your Google My Business Profile and Directory Listings Better:

The first thing you should do is claim and improve your Google My Business Profile. This is a listing that helps people find your store and learn about it. Give accurate details like your store address, phone number, and when you're open. Keep this information the same on other websites like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and Bing Places. When your information is consistent and correct, potential customers are more likely to trust you and visit your store.

2. Create a Website that Works on Phones: 

78% of local searches on mobile phones result in people visiting a store. That's why it's really important to make sure your website looks and works well on phones. Ask experts in local SEO to help you make a mobile-friendly website.

3. Understand What People Are Searching For:

In Local SEO, finding the right keywords is important. But it's not enough to just use local keywords. You also need to know why people are searching for those keywords. Do they want general information about your store or do they want to know what you sell and how to get to your store? When you understand why people search, you can use the right keywords to attract them to your store.

4. Respond to Reviews: 

Reviews online have a big impact on Local SEO. You can ask happy customers to leave reviews on Google or social media. When you get reviews, make sure to respond to them. If you get a bad review, respond politely and try to solve the problem. When people see that you care about your customers, they're more likely to trust you and come to your store.

5. Connect with Your Community:

Use social media and other platforms to share interesting local content. This can help you show up higher in local search results. Even though this might not immediately make more sales, it can make more people in your area aware of your store. When they're ready to buy something, they'll remember your store and come to you.

If you need help with Local SEO for your retail store, you can contact Young Guns Digital. Their experts can give you information about the cost of local SEO services and other important things to help you use these tips effectively.