Writers: Make the most of mobile local search statistics.
JAQUO iPhone screenshot
If you write on the internet – maybe you have a business site or a blog – it’s important to pay attention to the latest news that comes from search engine announcements, studies and statistics.
We heard in early 2015 that Google was intending to take a website’s phone-friendliness into account in its search algorithm and that it would have a ‘considerable impact’ on search results.
We now have information about what people are searching for on their phones. This is important for those who write on the internet, be it on this site or their own.
Local search
We now know that twenty percent of all searches relate to local information. That’s great if you have a local bricks-and-mortar business -always assuming of course, that your site is mobile friendly.
The independent writer
But how can the independent writer make the most of this? How does this help writers that rely on hits to their site to earn their living?
Actually, it’s quite simple.
Let’s look first at what searchers do when they are searching using their phones, tablets and computers. A huge 94% are looking for location information. They are asking ‘where?’ The independent writer cannot ignore this.
Another important factor to remember is that the majority of internet viewers prefer personal reviews and recommendations, rather than professional ones. People want to hear from real people. In other words, they want to hear from you.
It’s likely that you have a wealth of knowledge about your local area. Remember that these searchers will sometimes live in your area but many times they will be visiting. What do they need to know? What will they ask? Be sure that it’s you who tells them!
The chances are that there are local sites in your area that cover some of the inquiries. But writers can easily create articles about the sort of queries that tend not to get covered. You can report on them plus give readers your own invaluable insights. For example:
- Where I can I find a vegan meal for dinner?
- What’s the best local attraction for kids?
- Which is the best local gym / spa / salon / sports facility?
- Where can I get dry cleaning / shoes repaired /keys cut / a Mercedes serviced / foreign newspapers?
- Which parks /restaurants / hotels / businesses are dog friendly?
- What’s the best place for a wedding reception?
- Where can teenagers go dancing?
- Where is the best live music?
- Where’s the best place for Sunday brunch?
- What are the best things to do at weekends?
- Where is a gay-friendly hotel /bar / restaurant?
- Where are the best places to park?
- Where are the best happy hour deals?
- Where to buy sewing supplies?
- Where are the animal hospitals?
- Where’s the best florist?
- Where are the best romantic venues for a proposal?
- Where’s the farmers market?
- Where’s the local animal shelter?
- Where can I charge my phone?
- Which is the best golf course?
- Where is the best dentist?
- Where are there wine tastings /book signings / poetry readings / art events?
The list could go on for ever. Tell readers about the best kept secrets in your area. Review local businesses (be sure to let them know) especially if they have a poor website – or even no website at all. Be personal. Give insider tips. Offer local products for sale on your articles. Look for services, amenities and products in your area that no-one else is covering. Does your area have local specialities? Write about them and where the best can be found. Develop articles about local artists, writers or artisans. Interview local people, charities and business owners. Feature unusual communities. There are so many ideas.
Make the most of your local area and local search.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
