Imagine this scenario: A potential customer is looking for exactly what you offer, but they can’t seem to find you in Google searches. Frustrating, right?
That’s where local directories come in, connecting you with customers at the moment they need you the most. With more people relying on their phones to find nearby businesses, showing up in search results is the key to bringing customers through your doors.
It’s heartbreaking to see so many Hemet and San Jacinto businesses close down when all they need are a few affordable, DIY marketing tools to get their name in front of the right customers. Local business directories hit the mark perfectly by helping you show up in local search results at the right time.
What You’ll Learn in This Post: How Mobile Searches Work
In this post, you’ll discover how local mobile searches work, and how to make your Hemet or San Jacinto business stand out in local search results when people look online for the products or services you offer.
We’ll break down the basics of do-it-yourself search engine optimization (DIY SEO… the science of making sure your business shows up in search results) in easy-to-understand language. You’ll learn how local SEO works and how you can use it to boost your visibility and drive foot traffic to your store.
Plus, we’ll walk you through five simple steps to setting up and optimizing your listings in local directories—turning online searches into real customer visits. By the end, you’ll have better tools to attract more foot traffic to your listing and your brand. This helps grow your business, even on a tight budget.
Step 1: Local Mobile Search
Let’s say a local shopper is driving around San Jacinto and Hemet, trying to find a place that sells “locally sourced BBQ ribs.” He’s been driving all over town, but he can’t seem to find it in the valley. So, he finally pulls over on Ramona Expressway and types, “locally sourced BBQ ribs near me” into his phone.
Step 2: Appearing in Search Results
What pops up next? A list of nearby businesses that match his search query.
Is your business on that list? If you’re not optimizing your local directory listing, your business may not show up, even if you have exactly what that shopper is searching for at that moment. In this case, the only BBQ spot with locally sourced meats appears in the results—simply because they made sure to add those critical details to their listing.
An optimized listing will display your business name, address, phone number, hours of operation, and customer reviews. These pieces of information are key because they help Local figure out if your business meets his needs, along with specialties, such as locally sourced meats.
Step 3: Capturing Attention with Your Listing
When Local sees your listing, what makes him click? This is where your listing needs to shine. High-quality images, engaging descriptions, and special offers can be what sets you apart from the competition.
Here’s how your listing can engage potential customers:
- Click to Call: Allowing users to quickly call your business with questions or to place an order is a huge convenience factor.
- Click to Chat: Many directories offer a chat feature. If Local has a quick question before heading over, a prompt response could win him over.
- Visit Your Website: A link to your website lets Local explore more about your offerings, like a menu or seasonal promotions. If he’s impressed, he’s more likely to visit.
- Get Directions: Most directories offer this feature, giving Local real-time directions to your business—perfect for getting customers in the door.
Step 4: Converting Online Searches into Foot Traffic
Once Local has everything he needs—your business hours, a quick look at your menu, and directions to your location—he’s on his way! This is the ultimate goal: turning online searches into actual customer visits.
A well-crafted listing can make all the difference in whether Local chooses you or your competitor.
Step 5: Build Trust with Customer Reviews
After enjoying those ribs, it’s time to ask Local to leave a review. Positive reviews are social proof that future customers will rely on when deciding if your business is the best choice. The more positive feedback you have, the more credible and appealing your business becomes, driving even more foot traffic.
