Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a term that gets tossed around a lot in the world of digital marketing. But what is it and why is it such a hot topic? The answer is simple — SEO works. 

SEO is one of the most effective ways to reach customers at the right moment, driving traffic straight to your website. There is no doubt that your competitors are already taking advantage of this important tool. 

If you are a small business looking to increase your website's visibility, do not overlook the power of SEO. 

A Cost-Effective Marketing Strategy

Let's be realistic — most small businesses do not have large marketing budgets. But with SEO, you can get fantastic, long-lasting results that won't destroy your bottom line. 

You can easily monitor the effectiveness of your SEO efforts and make changes as necessary to increase traffic. Or hire a team of professionals to ensure that you get the most value. Either way, when compared with other digital marketing tools, SEO seems to be the most cost-effective. 

Boosted Lead Generation 

If someone knows your site, they can go to it quickly by typing in the web address. Those who do this are typically already customers or at least they already know what you are all about. But in your quest for leads, you need to make your site visible to those performing an organic search. 

This is how you will generate leads. 

When a potential buyer visits a search engine and uses a keyword that's important to your business, will your site come up? If your SEO is solid, you will show up in the search results, the higher the better. This increases your visibility — and the likelihood you will get traffic to your website. 

We don't need to tell you that web traffic can play a significant role in growing your small business. 

Increased Brand Awareness

Even if someone does not click on your link in the search results or become a significant lead, they encounter your brand and will now know who you are. And this can only happen with the help of SEO. 

Small businesses often rely on word-of-mouth advertising. Therefore, the more people visibly see and recognize your brand, whether a customer or not, the greater opportunity you have of your business info being passed on to someone else. 

Drive Local Traffic

Another reason SEO is important for small businesses is that it can drive local traffic. Using tried-and-true local SEO techniques, you can target your audience within a specific geographical location. 

This can prove to be very effective for those who have brick-and-mortar businesses that rely on customers from a specific location. Keep in mind that this is used in addition to traditional SEO. 

Prove You Are Credible and Trustworthy

When your business shows up in search results, it shows the potential customer that you may be doing something right. After all, even the search engine thought you were credible enough to be visible and ranked higher than others. 

Filling your site with useful content once they arrive at it can further prove your credibility. You can prove that you are an authority and valued source within the industry. 

When competing with major corporations, proper use of SEO can become a beneficial marketing strategy that can help you effectively grow your small business.

Let It Be - Local is a team of digital marketing experts who provide comprehensive SEO services that can land your business on the first page of results. They have helped hundreds of clients grow their customer base, boost sales, and increase revenue.