For many businesses in Montreal, the concept of SEO (search engine optimization) is quite confusing. So if you have been trying to avoid it ever since you created a website, don’t feel embarrassed. Many more are guilty of this as well. However, in this day and age, you simply cannot afford to overlook its importance. Take a look at the following numbers:

• An estimated 87% of smartphone users use a search engine (Google) every day

• 27.4 million Canadians are online

• 94% of those who go online do so to get information about a product or a service

Needless to say, if you run a business in this vibrant city, then you need SEO in Montreal. But we’re not just talking about any kind of SEO – it has to be targeted towards your audience. So, if you own a local restaurant or a store, you should implement local SEO strategies that will drive customers to your establishment.

If you’re wondering how to go about this, here’s a simple and easy guide to get you started:

1. Create Your Own Local Places Page

Start with Google since it’s the most popular search engine. Getting listed on “Google My Business” is free – you can register here. You can also create your local page on Bing and Yahoo. All you need to do is to provide them with information like your business location, hours of operation, phone number, etc.

2. Optimize Your Local Pages

This means adding quality images to your local pages, listing the services/products you offer, and other crucial details. You also need to properly categorize your page so that your potential customers can easily find you. Keep in mind that search engines will not show businesses that are incorrectly categorized or are not categorized at all.

3. Write a Killer Copy

Aside from optimizing your NAP information (name, address and place), you need to “sell” your brand to your target market. Make use of Google’s tools by uploading great content and getting positive reviews. Treat your local business page as your own website – it has to convince anyone looking at it to try out your service/products.

How to Optimize Your Website

Optimizing your local listings and pages isn’t the only thing you need to do. Your actual website and what’s being said about your business online are just as important. That said, you need to optimize your website by using city or regional keywords, and adding meta descriptions and titles that are SEO-friendly.

You should also add social buttons to your website and connect with as many people as possible, by joining local forums and groups or participating in blog discussions on topics related to your niche.

Remember that the higher your ranking in the search results, the more website visitors you will get. More traffic means more and more people will be made aware that your business exists, and that’s always good for business.