As a Locally Based Small Business, Do I Need SEO?

Over the past several years I have worked with local businesses to develop an online marketing plan to reach local customers.  Many times I am asked "Do I need Search Engine Optimization for my website if I am only trying to attract local customers to my business?"  My answer is yes, which always leads to another question "Do I have to pay someone to do my SEO for me?"  To this my answer is "Maybe."

First of all, let's take a look at exactly what is Search Engine Optimization, referred to as SEO.  A web search engine is designed to search for information across the world wide web.  SEO is the process of improving the volume or quality of traffic to a website from search engines via natural (i.e. unpaid) search results. 

So what does this mean to you as a local small business?  Today's search engines have integrated what is referred to as geo-targeted traffic.  This means that even if someone searching on the internet does not enter a specific city, the person searching is presented with local results based on the where the computer they are using is located.  Do you want individuals or businesses in your local area to know about you?  If yes, then you will want to optimize your website for local traffic, which simply means adding a location to your keywords. 

With some training and a little work on your part, you can handle the SEO of your website or blog yourself.  Keep in mind that SEO is not a science, so you will need to do some research on subjects such as keywords.  However, your education in SEO will go far beyond just driving local traffic to your website, it will help you with really getting to know your customers and what brings them to your door.

Business Training Team has launched a six part SEO course designed specifically for small business. To see an overview video visit Make SEO Work.