Web Marketing in Philadelphia: A Guide for Small Businesses 2023

Why Web Marketing In Philadelphia is Important

web marketing in Philadelphia
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Web marketing in Philadelphia has changed the way Philly small businesses market themselves. With over 92% of people searching for local businesses online, having a strong web marketing strategy is critical for companies in Philadelphia to reach new customers.

This article will provide an overview of web marketing in Philadelphia and how small business owners can leverage it to grow in the Philadelphia area.

What is Web Marketing?

Web marketing refers to any form of marketing done online through websites, social media, email, and other digital channels. The main goal is to attract new visitors, convert them into leads or customers, and retain those relationships over time through continued digital communication.

For Philly small businesses, web marketing in Philadelphia provides a cost-effective way to promote products or services, build brand awareness, and generate sales. With billions of searches taking place every day, getting found online is essential.

Some core web marketing tactics include:

  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Optimizing websites and content to rank better in search engines like Google for relevant keywords. This helps drive organic traffic to your site.
  • Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Ads – Running text ads on search engines and social media platforms when certain keywords are searched. You pay only when the ad is clicked.
  • Content Marketing – Creating and promoting valuable free content like blog posts, videos, and visuals to attract and convert prospects.
  • Social Media Marketing – Leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to build brand awareness, engage your audience, and drive sales.
  • Email Marketing – Building an email subscriber list to promote business updates, offers, and other messages to nurture leads and customers.

Why Web Marketing in Philadelphia Matters for Small Businesses

There are a few key reasons why web marketing should be a priority for any small business in the Philadelphia area:

1. Majority of Customers Search Online

Recent surveys found that 97% of Philadelphia consumers search online to find local products and services near them. Web marketing in Philadelphia allows you to appear on the channels where your customers are already looking.

2. Increased Local Competition

Philadelphia has a robust small business community with everything from restaurants to tradespeople vying for local customers. Web marketing in Philadelphia gives you an edge over competitors to stand out online and drive customer acquisition.

3. Mobile Usage on the Rise

Over 80% of Philadelphia customers access the internet primarily through their smartphones. A mobile-friendly website and digital tactics are crucial to connect with customers on the go.

4. Cost-Effective Marketing

Web marketing provides a substantial return on investment for the budget-conscious small business. Unlike traditional media like TV or radio, you can measure web marketing results and only pay for the actions that have value to your business.

5. Allows Targeting by Location

Web marketing tactics like local SEO, Google Business Profile optimization, and geotargeted social media ads allow businesses to promote your brand specifically to potential customers in Philadelphia.

Web Marketing Strategies for Philadelphia Businesses

Now that we’ve covered the importance of web marketing, here are some proven strategies and tips to help implement your digital marketing efforts in Philadelphia:

Focus on Local SEO

Local SEO should be the foundation of your web marketing in Philadelphia. This includes optimizing your website and blog content for locally-focused keywords like “Philadelphia web design” or “electrician in Philadelphia”.

Ensure your Google Business Profile is completely filled out and add your NAP (name, address, phone) details consistently across directories like Yelp. This will improve local rankings and visibility.

Produce Relevant Local Content

Use your blog, videos, and social media to create content about Philadelphia. From local events to information on neighborhoods, this content engages local readers and establishes your business as a trusted local authority.

Develop Relationships with Local Influencers

Partner with relevant local influencers on social media campaigns. Things like local food bloggers or Instagrammers in your niche. This taps into their audience and provides social proof.

Get Active on Philadelphia-Specific Sites

Interact and sponsor local community sites like NextDoor, neighborhood Facebook groups, or Philly-specific forums. Being present where Philadelphia conversations happen raises local awareness.

Use Paid Ads to Reach Locals

Set up PPC and social media ads targeted to people within Philadelphia. You can target by location, interests, behaviors, and more to get very local with your promotions.

Leverage Reviews Across Major Sites

Reviews on Google, Facebook, and popular directories like Yelp or TripAdvisor provide credibility with Philadelphia customers. Proactively collect positive reviews and embed them on your website.

Look for opportunities to sponsor local sports teams, events, or nonprofits. This makes your brand visible at local community gatherings attended by residents.

Provide Value with Local Landing Pages

Create dedicated “city pages” on your website tailored to the needs of Philadelphia prospects. Offer exclusive discounts or content just for locals.

Conduct a Local Email Marketing Campaign

Build a permission-based email list segmented by Philadelphia subscribers. Send emails with special Philadelphia offers, local business updates, and promotions just for local recipients.

The Importance of Ongoing Optimization

The key to success with web marketing for small businesses in Philadelphia is constantly testing and optimizing your tactics.

Track website analytics to see which marketing activities drive the most traffic and conversions from local customers. Double down on the strategies proving most effective.

Evaluate search ranking positions and paid advertising metrics at least monthly. Make adjustments to SEO titles, ad copy, landing pages, and keywords to maximize performance.

Solicit customer feedback to ensure your offerings and messaging resonate with the Philadelphia target audience. Be flexible and adapt your approach over time.

Web marketing combines both art and science. Put in the work to continually refine and optimize efforts for your niche and location.

Next Steps for Your Philadelphia Web Marketing

Hopefully, this article has outlined how critical web marketing in Philadelphia is to reach customers and compete in Philadelphia today. Here are a few parting thoughts on building your digital marketing strategy:

  • Start with foundational elements like your website, Google Business Profile, and social channels first. Make sure they are optimized for conversions and local visibility.
  • Develop unique, hyperlocal content like blog posts about Philadelphia culture, neighborhoods, events, and local business spotlights.
  • Be consistent. Web marketing requires an ongoing commitment, but the long-term rewards are well worth the effort.
  • Track and test all campaigns. Double down on tactics that successfully convert Philadelphia visitors into customers.
  • Reach out for help. If you need assistance with your Philadelphia web marketing efforts, contact the experts at Rhema Marketing. Our Philadelphia SEO and digital marketing team can help build and execute a winning local strategy tailored to your business goals.

With a strategic web marketing plan, any small business can increase visibility, customers, and growth in the Philadelphia region. Now is the time to elevate your web marketing in Philadelphia so you can gain an edge over the competition.