Running a local business means keeping up with how customers find you. In 2026, the basics still matter, but they need a modern refresh. This guide breaks down the most important steps you can take to boost visibility, earn trust, and grow business in your community.
1. Online Directories
Online directories are the digital version of word-of-mouth. When customers search for a service near them, these listings guide the way.
What to do:
- Audit your presence on Google Business Profile, Yelp, Bing, Apple Maps, and chamber directories
- Ensure consistency for your business name, address, and phone number (NAP)
- Keep information current, including hours, photos, services, and descriptions
- Add location keywords like “coffee shop in Murfreesboro TN”
New for 2026
Voice and AI searches are growing fast. Use short, clear sentences that assistants can read easily.
Example: “We provide 24-hour locksmith services in Murfreesboro.”
Quick Habit
Do a monthly directory check.
2. Reviews & Reputation
Local customers trust other local customers. Reviews boost both your credibility and your rankings.
What to do:
- Ask happy customers for a review every time you complete a job
- Respond to all reviews quickly and professionally
- Feature top reviews on your website and social media
- Add review-request links in email signatures and invoices
New for 2026
Watch for fake review patterns. Search engines are cracking down and may penalize businesses with suspicious activity.
Quick Habit
Aim for 1–3 new reviews each week.
3. Website Design
Your website is your 24/7 storefront. It must load fast, look sharp, and guide people to take action.
What to do:
- Optimize for mobile and fast load speed
- Add clear calls to action like “Call Now” or “Book Online”
- Update visuals with real local photos
- Include accessibility basics like alt text and readable contrast
New for 2026
Make your content voice-search friendly with natural questions and LocalBusiness schema markup.
Quick Habit
Refresh one page every quarter.
4. Social Media
Local customers want to know who they are supporting. Social media is your chance to highlight your team, your story, and your place in the community.
What to do:
- Focus on platforms your customers use most
- Share behind-the-scenes and team moments
- Respond to comments and messages quickly
- Repost user-generated content to build trust
New for 2026
Try short videos and partner with local micro-influencers. Local voices can outperform big ads.
Quick Habit
Plan posts in advance using a simple monthly calendar.
5. Email Marketing
Often overlooked by small businesses, email is still one of the highest ROI channels, especially in a local setting where you have repeat clients and community ties.
What to do:
- Collect email addresses at every touchpoint
- Segment your email list so messages feel personal (new customer welcome list, loyalty offer list, “we haven’t seen you in a while” list)
- Share useful tips, community updates, and seasonal reminders
- Automate welcome and follow-up emails
New for 2026
Use local personalization like neighborhoods, seasonal services, or nearby events.
Quick Habit
Review open and click rates each month and clean your list quarterly.
6. Digital Ads
Paid ads remain a powerful way to generate targeted traffic, but in 2026, the key will be precision and budget efficiency.
What to do:
- Start with Google Search and local social ads
- Geo-target your service area
- Use landing pages that match your ad message
- Monitor cost per lead and set performance goals
New for 2026
AI-driven tools can automate bidding and creative testing to stretch your budget further.
Quick Habit
Review results quarterly and test a new message regularly.
7. SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
Being found when someone types “service + your area” is essential, and in 2026, SEO means on both search engines and intelligent-agent/voice search.
What to do
- Optimize page titles, meta descriptions, and headers
- Create content based on real customer questions
- Build credible local backlinks
- Ensure secure, mobile-friendly site performance
New for 2026
Address voice-style questions your audience actually asks, like “Who fixes AC units near me in Smyrna?”
Quick Habit
Check Search Console monthly for opportunities or issues.
About Boro Business Lab
Boro Business Lab is a digital marketing company right here in Murfreesboro. We help local businesses get more customers online through the seven core services above. When you win, our community wins too.
Ready to grow in 2026? Contact us at Boro Business Lab.
