I recently moved to a new home on a new street. I love living here but it’s been difficult for people to find me because my address isn’t on Google maps. In fact if you look it up on the satellite view it’s just a dirt lot. I had packages sent back to the companies I ordered them from because the delivery company thought the address was wrong. The installer setting up my phone and internet service never showed up, because my address wasn’t in his car’s navigation. The paperboy couldn’t locate my home, so it took an additional 2 weeks before service started. And I have had to send a map to any friend or family member coming for a visit.
I had countless people unable to find my home because I wasn’t easy to find on google maps. As a result many people showed up late, or not at all. Aside from it being a bit of a headache, it has got me thinking about how customers find businesses. If your business isn’t easy to find you are losing potential customers every time someone searches for your products or services on the net. Being on the first page is key to your company’s growth, settling for second will cost you customers. If finding your business doesn’t fall in line with your potential customer’s expectations then they won’t find you.
While this may sound like the most basic step, that’s because it is, but it’s surprising how often I encounter it. Whether it is Google, Yahoo, a phone book or an industry specific guide, take the extra step to ensure your customers can find your business.
