Why Your Business Should Invest in Local Search

Culled from a variety of research (details below), here are persuasive facts that should motivate all local businesses to invest in their online presence.

1. 97% of consumers use the Internet when researching local products and services.

2. 140 billion local searches are expected in 2014.

3. 95% of smart phone users have looked for local information.

4. 36% say that a clear and smart website gives a local business more credibility. 32% are more likely to contact a local business if they have website.

5. 98% of searchers choose a business on page 1 of their search results.

6. 88% of consumers consult online reviews before they purchase local services.

7. 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.

8. 77% of smart phone users contact a business after looking for local information.

9. 59% of mobile users who look for local information visit the business the same day.

10. The #1 reason for doing an online search is to find the location for a known business.

11. 72% of small businesses are using social media to promote their businesses.

12. 7 out of 10 consumers are more likely to use a local business if it has information available on a social media site.

(Research from BIA/Kelsey, Google, comScore, and BrightLocal)