How Do Customers Find Small Businesses?

Vistaprint Digital Impact Report: How Do Customers Find You? People are looking for small businesses. In fact, 32% say they shop at one at least once a week! To help small businesses better connect with all of the people who want to find them, Vistaprint Digital asked 2,000 consumers how they discover new places to shop, and how they engage with the businesses they visit. Do you know how your customers find you? They start online We often hear from business owners that word of mouth is the most important source of new customers, but our survey found that online research is now equally important! 36% and 35% of respondents report finding new businesses through online research and by word of mouth respectively. They check out your website Websites give people details about your business, encouarge trust and help establish your brand. And while having a website is important, it might actually work against you if it doesn't look professional. 34% 45% are unlikely to shop with a business if it does not have a website. are unlikely to buy from a business with a poorly designed website. What are they looking for? Product info, hours, and directions top the list. They read online reviews In the age of mobile, it's more important than ever to actively manage your online listings in places like Google, Yelp and social media. How important? A whopping 75% of respondents say it's important to read reviews before visiting a business! 50% of respondents said bad online reviews were the most likely thing to keep them from Over visiting or buying from a business. They expect to connect Social media is no longer optional. You don't have to be everywhere, but customers want-and expect-to be able to engage with you in places other than your website alone. 60% of respondents say that it's important for a small business to have a social media presence. Marketing to millennials? 28% of people 18-24 say a social media presence is very important for businesses; 1 in 4 find businesses there for the first time. People are visiting small businesses every day. Create a powerful online identity that will help them find, engage and shop with yours. Vistaprint Digital Websites & Domains Social Media Local Email Marketing Listings vistaprint DIGITAL vistaprint.com/digital Source: Digital Impact Report: Online Identity commissioned by Vistaprint Digital with 2,000 U.S. adult participants in April, 2016.