How to get found online as a local business

     Trying to get found online as a local business comes with both advantages and challenges. In this chapter, we discuss a few ways to surface in local search engine results.

Connect with industry thought leaders

     Connecting with industry thought leaders offers an effective way to draw highquality inbound links and create buzz around your company name. Have you been following a popular blog in your industry? If so, can you reach out to the author with ideas for creating content together? Such type of collaboration can grow your reach and make you more appealing to folks who research carefully before they make a purchase decision.

Focus on GPS-enabled services

     As people continue to embrace the usage of smart phones, they also start relying on location-based applications with GPS functionality. These apps offer quick ways to find out which transportation services are in your area, whether your friends are nearby and where to go shopping or grab a bite.

     Examples of such applications are Google Latitude, Foursquare and Foodspotting. So pay particular attention to these platforms and the special opportunities they offer to businesses.

Check out some case studies

     Not sure how to start growing your local search traffic and leads? Check out some success stories. One example David Meerman Scott points out is Mike Pownall, DVM of McKee Pownall Equine Services. Mike uses social media, especially Twitter, to reach horse owners in Toronto which leads directly to business growth.

     Source: The ultimate how to marketing guide (HubSpot and David Meerman Scott) e-book