3 Local Marketing Must-Haves Every Woman in Business Needs to Know (Like, Yesterday)
Hey there, big bad biz ladies!
You’re probably here because you’ve got a business! It really doesn’t matter what kind of business you have, whether it’s a cozy brick-and-mortar boutique, a soulful therapy practice or an interior painting business - this one is for any local business you can imagine.
I’m gonna be dropping some helpful truth bombs, hotter than your morning coffee ☕.
So let’s have a fun chat about three things that are 100% absolutely non-negotiable when it comes to getting your local biz found, loved and connected with the people who need it most.
Even if you're new to the world of marketing, no worries. I’ll break this down as simple as possible , with a side of fun and a whole lotta support.
1. Google Business Profile = Your FREE Digital Storefront
The undeniable honest truth is, 93% of searches start with GOOGLE.
So if your business isn’t on Google, it’s basically invisible. Yup, thems the breaks.
When someone searches for your biz and nothing comes up? That’s like having a store with no sign out front and the lights off.
No one knows what your business is about and they sure as heck aren’t walking in, mmmk?
Here’s what you need to do right NOW:
Go claim your Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business). Don’t read any further until you’ve done this. I’ll wait.
OK GREAT, this is your first step to getting your business found through Google search!
It’s awesome because it’s 100% FREE and it’s the fastest way to start showing up in local search results and on Google Maps. (this is VERY VERY important for local businesses)
Once you’ve claimed that bad boy, optimize/update that profile to the max!
Add your biz hours
Drop in your phone number and website
Upload high-quality photos (yes, selfies count, people love knowing who they’re doing business with!)
Respond to reviews (even the spicy one, gracefully, of course)
Use keywords like “Trauma Informed Therapist in Vancouver” to help Google match your biz with the people who are looking in your area.
If you can only muster up the energy and mental capacity to do ONE thing on this list, please let it be this. It’s a game-changer.
2. Local SEO – So The Right People Can Find You
Okay, I know most people’s eyeballs glaze over the moment I whisper the acronym SEO but really, it’s something you’re going to kinda wanna know if you have a business because you can’t grow without on-line marketing.
If you want a more in-depth explanation of WTF SEO IS check this other article.
If you’ve ever wondered how businesses show up when you Google something like “trauma therapist near me” or “vegan bakery in Vancouver” that’s the SEO in action.
Here’s the beginner-friendly breakdown:
Use keywords on your website that describe what you do and where you do it (think, what would people type into Google seach to find what I offer?)
Make sure your contact info (name, phone number, email, address) is consistent everywhere - Google loves that
Create location-based content (“Best Self-Care Spots in Vancouver,” anyone?)
Embed a Google Map on your contact page so people can find you easily without thinking. Lay it out RIGHT in front of their eyes. Make it easy.
THIS MATTERS SO MUCH and here’s why
Most people search local stuff first. Think of when you’re craving pizza, you go to Google and type in “best pizza near me or “best pizza in Yaletown” If your biz isn’t optimized to show up in those searches, you’re damn rights your competitor (the business THAT DOES put effort into their local SEO) is going to get the majority of the business.
3. Reviews = On-line Gossip That Gets Ya Business
We all love a good recommendation, whether it’s for a hair stylish or a financial coach.
In 2025, reviews are the new referrals, and you bet your boots people are checking them before even considering working with you.
Here’s how to do it right:
Ask your happy clients for a review (you can automate this with tools like Google, NiceJob, or even a simple email) I suggest to my clients to leave the link at the bottom of your invoice, so simple!
Respond to every single review—yes, even the petty ones. Show your professionalism and personality.
Show off your raving reviews on your website and social media accounts.
Review Reality Check:
A biz with 0 reviews feels sketchy. A biz with 10+ glowing reviews? Helps people feel confident in your business.
Here’s the Scoop:
If you’re a woman in business trying get customers locally, these are three things aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re non-negotiables:
✅ Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile
✅ Do some beginner-friendly Local SEO
✅ Ask for (and showcase) those glowing reviews
And don’t you worry, you don’t have to do it all today. Marketing doesn’t have to be stressful & overwhelming (I know it can feel that way if you’re trying to run a business AND do your own marketing)
My advice? Start small. Stay consistent. Keep showing up. Whether that be adding a pic or two to your Google Business Review or posting something valuable and helpful in a relevant group on Facebook, at least you’re doing one little thing daily for your business.
Believe me, no effort is EVER wasted - the energy you spend on your business will always pay off.
Your biz deserves to be seen, supported, and successful—and with a little marketing effort, it will be.
Need help optimizing your local marketing strategy?
I got you. Whether you’re brand new to SEO or want someone to just handle it, check out my services here or slide into my inbox.
I love helping women succeed in business, cause dammit - you deserve it!
talk soon
SEO Shalyn