3 Simple Ways to Help Your Small Business Get Found Online

Why Being Easy to Find Online Builds Trust and Drives Growth

Small business, you are loved.

Consumers appreciate your authenticity, personal touch, and positive impact on local communities. A 2024 survey found that 72% of people prefer shopping locally over big-box stores. That means your audience is out there; they need to see you.

Word-of-mouth is still one of the most effective ways to grow your business. But today, “word-of-mouth” includes something bigger than two friends chatting over lunch: it happens online. And often, the first thing customers do is search for you.

When they do, what they find (or don’t find) makes all the difference.

Why Online Visibility Matters

Online reviews are the new word-of-mouth advertising.

Online reviews now carry as much weight as personal recommendations. In fact, 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as referrals from people they know and trust. With more than half of all consumers using Google Maps to discover local businesses, your online presence, mainly your Google Business Profile, is critical.

Here’s what potential customers are looking for when they search:

• Business address & directions

• Hours of operation

• Contact information

• Website URL

If that information is missing or incorrect, you risk losing trust. 62% of people say they would avoid using a business with inaccurate online information.

At Little Nudge Marketing, we help you build credibility and visibility through small, strategic actions. Here are a few easy wins to start with.

3 Local SEO Tips to Help Your Customers Find You

1. Claim Your Google Business Profile

Claiming your Google Business Profile is one of the most important things you can do to boost your visibility in local search results when you have a physical location. This lets you control the information displayed about your business and helps you appear in geographical searches.

It also protects you from misinformation. If you haven’t claimed your business, anyone, including your competitors, can suggest changes to your listing.

2. Link to a Website

A website builds trust. Unlike a Facebook page, your website gives you complete control over your content, branding, and how people interact with your business.

Even a simple site with essential information and contact details can make you look more credible and professional. Plus, websites support Search Engine Optimization (SEO), making it easier for new customers to find you.

Modern website builders offer tools like online booking, marketing integrations, and social media links, so your website complements your social media presence, rather than replacing it.

3. Respond to Reviews

Today’s consumers want a connection. One way to build it is by responding to reviews, especially the negative ones.

Saying “thank you” for a positive review shows you’re listening. A thoughtful reply to a negative one shows you care. Treat reviewers like customers walking into your business. Every response is an opportunity to build your relationship with a customer.

Plus, engaging with reviews signals to Google that your business is active, which can improve your local search rankings.

A Little Nudge Goes a Long Way

A few small actions can make a significant difference in how customers find and trust your business online, such as claiming your Google listing, keeping your hours accurate, and responding to reviews.

We know your time is valuable. You’re juggling operations, customer care, and a dozen other tasks. Little Nudge Marketing is here to be your partner in growth, helping you take small steps that lead to bigger results.

Whether you need a complete branding system or help setting up your Google Business Profile, we’re here to support you.

Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to talk about your goals and get the guidance you need to move forward.