As times change, new technologies help businesses find new consumers. Some small business owners may be intimidated by emerging marketing techniques. However, many companies with any type of online presence try to take advantage of every tool at their disposal.

Since a growing number of consumers are shopping online, search engine marketing has become one of the most important ways to increase a company’s reach.

Whether or not you have a brick and mortar store, it is vital to ensure your website is ranked well in searches for your local area.

What does this mean?

People aren’t just searching for ’widgets’ anymore they are searching for “widgets AND my town” some even have the ability to narrow their searches to their own neighborhood.

Why is this?

People want to know whom they are dealing with. Your customers are checking for your website, location, map or directions, social media links, contact information, hours and even a photo of the owner or staff. Your customers want to see who they are doing business with. They want to be able to visit your business location even before they step foot through your door. Even in the face of a global economy more and more people are realizing the importance of community and want to give their business to local merchants.

Source: Why is Search Engine Marketing Important?