From Storefront to Search Engine: Getting Found Online in 2025
Start with Local SEO Basics
Why It Matters:
Local SEO ensures your business appears in searches like “best bakery near me” or “top pet store in Metro Vancouver.” Customers who search locally often make immediate purchasing decisions, making this a high-priority area to focus on.
What You Can Do Today:
- Claim Your Google Business Profile: If you haven’t already, claim your Google Business Profile (GBP). It’s free and boosts your chances of showing up in Google Maps and local search results.
- Optimize GBP Information: Add your business name, address, phone number, hours, and a short description with keywords. Upload high-quality photos of your storefront, products, or team.
- Collect Reviews: Encourage happy customers to leave reviews. Respond to every review, whether positive or negative. This shows customers you value feedback.
Bonus Tip:
Use platforms like Yelp or Bing Places for Business to expand your reach beyond Google.
Implement Now: Claim your GBP and update your details.
Your Website: The Foundation of Your Digital Presence
Why It Matters:
Your website is your digital storefront. A professional, user-friendly site builds trust and helps convert online visitors into in-store customers.
Things to Think About:
- DIY or Hire a Professional? If you have time and technical knowledge, platforms like Wix or Squarespace make website building accessible. However, hiring a web designer may be a better investment for creating a custom, high-performing site.
- Key Features to Include:
- Clear navigation
- Mobile responsiveness
- Contact information prominently displayed
- A blog or FAQ section to showcase your expertise
Example Actionable Idea:
Add an “About Us” page to tell your story. Highlight your connection to Metro Vancouver to appeal to local customers.
Implement Now: Use free tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to check if your website is optimized for smartphones.
Invest in Social Media to Drive Awareness
Why It Matters:
Social media platforms help small businesses connect with their audience, share promotions, and showcase products. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are powerful tools for Metro Vancouver businesses to stay top-of-mind.
What to Consider:
- DIY: If you’re comfortable creating posts, start small with 1-2 platforms that fit your audience.
- Hire Someone: A social media manager or agency can ensure consistency and deliver a professional look.
What You Can Post:
- Behind-the-scenes content from your store
- Customer testimonials
- Metro Vancouver-specific promotions, like “local-only discounts”
Bonus Tip:
Tag nearby businesses in posts to build relationships and reach more local customers.
Implement Now: Post a quick story or reel showing something unique about your business today!
Advertising Online: The Next Level
Why It Matters:
Online ads, like Google Ads or Facebook Ads, can target specific audiences and drive immediate results. For example, you can show ads to Metro Vancouver customers searching for services in your niche.
What to Think About:
- DIY: Google and Facebook both have tutorials to set up ads.
- Worth the Investment? Hiring an expert may maximize your return on ad spend, especially if you’re new to online advertising.
Low-Cost Ad Ideas:
- Promote a limited-time offer to increase foot traffic.
- Use geotargeting to only show ads to Metro Vancouver residents.
Implement Now: Explore Google’s Keyword Planner to see what terms your customers are searching for.
Evaluate and Plan for Growth
Why It Matters:
Once your online presence is up and running, continuous improvement is key to staying competitive. Use analytics tools to track what’s working and adjust your strategy as needed.
Evaluate:
- Are you getting website traffic from local search results?
- Is your social media engagement growing?
- Are customers mentioning your online efforts in reviews or in-store?
Plan Ahead:
- DIY Tools: Free tools like Google Analytics or HubSpot can help you track performance.
- Expert Help: If you’re too busy running your business, outsourcing digital marketing can free up your time while ensuring consistent results.
Implement Now: Set a monthly reminder to review your analytics and adjust your strategies.
Transforming your brick-and-mortar business into a digital-friendly powerhouse might seem overwhelming, but it’s achievable one step at a time. Start with claiming your Google Business Profile or making your website mobile-friendly—small steps that can lead to big results in 2025.
If you’re wondering whether to DIY or hire a professional, think about what makes the most sense for your time and resources. Either way, taking action today will help your business thrive tomorrow. Let's chat and discover where you can get the most bang for your buck! http://www.askCarla.ca/BookACall