3 Simple, No-Cost Ways to Get More Attention Online for Your Local Business

Hey there, fellow business owners! It’s your local Website Genius Brad Dick, and I want to help you get your business noticed online — without spending a dime.

Let’s face it, as a small or mid-sized business, you may be competing for attention with bigger companies who seem to have unlimited resources. But the truth is, you have an advantage they don’t: your ability to connect directly with local customers who are right around the corner. It’s all about using smart, simple strategies to shine brighter than your competition.

Here are three proven things you can do, right now, to increase your online visibility — for FREE.

1. Optimize Your Google My Business Listing

Google My Business (GMB) is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal, and it’s absolutely free. But many small businesses neglect it, which is a huge missed opportunity. When people search for businesses or services in your area, your GMB listing is often the first thing they’ll see.

Here’s how to take full advantage:

• Claim and complete your profile: Make sure your business name, address, phone number, website, and business hours are all correct. This helps customers find you easily.
  
  
• Add photos: Upload high-quality images of your products, services, or your storefront. Listings with photos are 42% more likely to receive requests for directions and 35% more likely to receive click-throughs to websites.
  
  
• Post updates regularly: Google allows you to post offers, news, or events directly on your GMB profile. This gives customers a reason to check your listing often, keeping you top of mind.
  
  

2. Leverage Local SEO with Your Website Content

Search engine optimization (SEO) is critical to getting found online, but you don’t have to hire an expensive agency to make it work for you. By focusing on local SEO, you’ll make sure that your business shows up when people search for what you offer in your area.

Here are some easy, free ways to improve your local SEO:

• Use location-based keywords: In your website’s copy, include keywords that reference your city or region. For example, if you run a plumbing business in Austin, make sure your website content includes phrases like "Austin plumbing services" or "emergency plumbers in Austin." This helps Google know exactly where you are and what you do.
  
  
• Add a local blog post: Write a short blog post that answers a question local customers might have. For example, "Best Plumbing Tips for Austin Homeowners" or "How to Prepare for a Texas Winter Storm: Local HVAC Tips." This will not only attract more visitors but also boost your website’s ranking for local searches.
  
  
• Get listed in local directories: Make sure your business is listed on local review sites like Yelp, Angie’s List, and the Chamber of Commerce. These backlinks will signal to Google that you’re a legitimate business in your area.
  
  

3. Engage with Your Audience on Social Media

Social media is an excellent, cost-free tool for building a relationship with your local community. The best part? You don’t have to be a marketing guru to get started.

Here’s what you can do:

• Start conversations: Post things that encourage engagement. Ask questions, create polls, or share local news or events relevant to your business. The more people engage with your content, the more likely it is that your business will appear in their feed.
  
  
• Highlight your community involvement: Whether you’re sponsoring a local event, supporting a charity, or simply partnering with other local businesses, be sure to share it on social media. People love to support businesses that are active in their communities.
  
  
• Use local hashtags: Research and use hashtags relevant to your area (#AustinPlumbing or #DallasRestaurants) in your posts. These can help local customers discover your business.
  
  

It doesn’t take a huge budget to get noticed online. In fact, these three simple steps — optimizing your Google My Business listing, improving your local SEO, and engaging with your audience on social media — can bring you immediate attention from local customers. With consistent effort, you’ll start seeing results quickly.

At The Website Genius, we’re here to help small businesses like yours thrive online. No matter your budget, we can provide affordable solutions to help you grow. Get in touch today, and let’s start getting your business the attention it deserves!