When searching for local businesses, consumers are turning to Google in droves. 46% of all searches on Google have local intent, meaning that people are looking for a specific business or service in their area. These changing search trends present a massive opportunity for local businesses to reach potential customers through targeted advertising on Google.
So, what are the most common local search terms people use on Google? The top three categories are:
- “Near me” searches: These are searches that include phrases like “pizza near me” or “hair salon near me.” These types of searches have seen a 900% increase in the past two years, indicating an intense desire among consumers to find businesses close to their current location.
- Brand or business name searches: These are searches that include the name of a specific business or brand. For example, someone might search for a company after seeing a billboard or truck or after getting a recommendation from a friend. These types of searches can be a good indicator of consumer interest in a particular business.
- Product or service searches: These are searches that include a specific product or service, such as “plumber” or “dentist.” These searches can indicate a need or desire for a particular business or service in the local area.
So, how can local businesses take advantage of these local search trends? One way is through targeted advertising on Google. By creating ads that are tailored to specific local search terms, businesses can increase the chances that their ads will be seen by potential customers searching for their products or services.
For example, a local pizza restaurant might create an ad targeting the search term “pizza near me.” This ad would be more likely to be seen by people actively searching for a pizza restaurant in their area, increasing their chances of visiting the restaurant.
In addition to targeted advertising, local businesses can also optimize their online presence to improve their chances of being found through local searches. Claiming and verifying their Google Business Profile listing is an excellent place to start. Claiming their profile allows businesses to provide information about their location, hours of operation, and other vital details to potential customers.
Overall, targeting ads on local search keywords can be a powerful way for businesses to reach potential customers and drive foot traffic to their storefronts. By understanding the most common local search terms and optimizing their online presence, companies can tap into the vast potential of local search to drive business growth.