It can no longer be denied that is critical that not only your business has an online presence but also that your potential customers are capable of finding you through an online search. Back in March 2010, BIA/Kelsey released a study that found that 97% of consumers use the Internet to do research before buying local products and services. The study pointed out that 90% of them used search engines and 48% used the online Yellow Pages. On top of that, the commercialization of smartphones and GPS technologies has empowered consumers to look for local business on the go.
Local SEO Companies Have the Edge
In the race towards meeting this demand of hyper-local data, local business are quick to fall for SEO businesses that offer them “to become the #1 hit on Google” for just $99. This company could be anywhere in the world and may have no idea about your local market, but hey! that $99 and #1 promise just sound great. This is a mistake. Think about it: you are a local business and you would like locals to find you. If you are a web design Montreal company, why would you trust a company located in Sydney, for example, to run your SEO strategy? Wouldn’t a company located in Montreal be better suited to understand the needs and wants from the local Montreal market? While it can be argued that there are talented SEO professionals around the world, it cannot be refuted that a local SEO consultant will have an edge over an out-of-town one in dealing with a local market.
Going back to the Montreal example: when looking for a SEO services Montreal company, make sure to look for one that has the required specialized knowledge, resources and experience to make your business more visible at a local level. As a rule of thumb, beware any company promising you a top rank within weeks. This is a major red flag because it is not only deceiving but also against Google’s guidelines. Ask questions and ask for live ranking examples of current clients. Reputable local SEO companies have built good client relationships over the years and will have a portfolio of local clients ready for you.
This is why local SEO companies have the edge over out-of-town ones.
Takeaway
Potential local consumers are looking for your business online and on their smartphones. Make it easier for them to find you by hiring the services of a local SEO company that can develop the appropriate strategy for your market. Beware of too-good-to-be-true SEO companies.
