How to Establish An Online Presence As A Local Business

If your business isn’t showing up online, you’re missing out on customers who are already looking for what you offer. Today, over 81% of retail customers start their buying journey online, even if they end up visiting a store or booking a service in person. No matter what kind of business you run, that’s exposure you can’t afford to neglect.

You need an online presence that makes it easy for people to find, trust, and, ultimately, choose your business instead of all their other options. Fortunately, with this guide – and a few hours of your time – you can build a strong digital foundation that helps you attract more customers and grow your business.

Here’s how to get started.

1. Claim and Build Your Google Business Profile

When someone nearby searches for your services, your Google Business Profile is usually the first thing they see. This free listing appears in Google Search and Maps, and it can make the difference between a customer calling you or scrolling past.

Start by claiming your business profile on Google, then add:

• Your business name, address, phone number, and website
• Business hours, service areas, and accepted payment types
• High-quality photos of your location, products, or team
• A strong business description with relevant local keywords

To build your profile up even further, ask customers for reviews and respond to their feedback promptly. The more social proof you have, the easier it is to convince new customers to give you a try.

2. Create a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Website

Your website doesn’t need to be complicated. But it does need to be clear, professional, and fast.

Focus on delivering the basics:

• A home page that explains who you are and what you do
• A contact page with address, hours, phone number, and a contact form
• Dedicated pages for your services or products
• Testimonials or success stories from happy customers

Most importantly, make sure your site is fast and works well on mobile devices. More than half of local searches happen on smartphones, so your site should load quickly and be easy to navigate on a small screen.

3. Use Localized Content to Target Nearby Customers

If your business serves multiple towns or neighborhoods, consider creating location-specific pages on your site. Be sure to include the area, local businesses, and other location-specific information to signal to search engines that your website is relevant.

You can also publish blog posts or updates tied to local events, seasonal services, or community partnerships. These help you rank higher in search results for each area and give visitors confidence that you serve their community.

4. Establish a Consistent Social Media Presence

You don’t need to be on every social channel, but you have to be somewhere customers can find you. For most small businesses, Facebook and Instagram are the best starting points.

Keep your profiles active and up-to-date, and post about:

• Promotions or limited-time offers
• Behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business
• Customer stories or testimonials
• Local involvement (e.g., events, sponsorships)

Social media helps customers get to know your brand in a more informal, personal way. It also signals that you’re open, responsive, and ready to serve them.

5. Start Building a Customer List

You don’t always have to wait for customers to find you. Starting a texting or email list gives you a direct way to share promotions, announce service updates, or request reviews.

Offer a small incentive, like a discount or bonus service , to encourage signups through your website, in-store signage, or social media. Just remember to keep your messaging helpful, relevant, and consistent. And only text customers if they explicitly give you permission. Otherwise, you risk TCPA compliance issues.

6. Don’t Overlook Your Voicemail and On-Hold Messaging

Every customer touchpoint matters, including the experience they have when they call you. A clear, friendly voicemail or on-hold message can reinforce your brand and answer common questions (like hours or directions) without tying up your team. If you regularly serve customers by phone, consider creating a short, professional message that also promotes your current offers or services.

Final Thoughts

Establishing a digital presence doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By starting with just a few foundational pieces – a solid Google listing, a clean website, localized content, and consistent messaging – you set your business up for long-term growth in the digital world. 

Need help getting started? Watt Media specializes in helping local businesses build smart, affordable online foundations that attract real customers. Reach out today to learn more!