Google dominates the online market, there’s no denying that, and because of this, many businesses in Leeds pour all their time, effort, and money into their search visibility on Google. However, in doing this, they often ignore another, typically lucrative, search ecosystem – Bing.
With much less competition and easy access to high-intent users, key decision makers, and affluent individuals, the opportunities for businesses here are exceptional.
So, here are just a few key reasons why a Leeds-based SEO agency or marketer shouldn’t overlook Bing in their digital marketing strategy.
The Hidden Value of Bing Places
Local search visibility is crucial, especially in a busy and competitive area like Leeds. Most businesses will spend plenty of time updating and optimising their Google Business Profile, but a surprising number will leave their Bing Places listing completely untouched.
However, Bing powers built-in mapping apps on millions of Windows devices, Amazon Alexa systems, and Apple Maps, so ignoring this tool can instantly lose you revenue. If a potential client or customer uses voice search (which is becoming increasingly common) or their default desktop map to find products and services in Leeds, it’s Bing data that’s used to return those results.
Competition in Bing is significantly lower than on Google too, so it’s often much quicker and easier to land a top spot in regional searches, giving you a competitive edge over the businesses that ignore this valuable tool.
B2B Success With Microsoft Ads
For B2B operators, Leeds is undoubtedly one of the largest hubs for the sector outside of London. And since the typical Bing user is more mature, more qualified, and typically earns higher than the average internet user, leveraging Microsoft Ads for B2B targeting in Leeds is invaluable.
Most decision-makers can be captured at work, and hundreds of departments across Leeds use Bing as their default search engine. So by using Microsoft Ads, B2B marketers can get their messages in front of executives, department heads, and directors at the exact moment they’re looking for a corporate solution. Plus, the cost-per-click on Bing is generally lower than Google’s, meaning you can stretch your budget further.
Clear SEO Guidelines
Google is notorious for being vague and secretive when it comes to ranking factors. Bing on the other hand, is fairly transparent, making it easier for marketers and SEO professionals to focus on making meaningful changes that have a significant impact on rankings.
When businesses focus on following Bing’s webmaster guidelines and avoiding the practices that are considered manipulative or misleading, they can typically reach the top of the SERP’s faster and more effectively. While following the guidelines doesn’t guarantee results, their clarity and transparency does make the SEO process considerably easier than Google’s.
The Power of Bing Shouldn’t Be Underestimated
Bing is a powerful tool for businesses in Leeds, offering plenty of opportunities for high-quality lead generation, quick wins, and lower advertising costs. The businesses that recognise the hidden potential of Bing are the ones that have a better chance of thriving in a highly competitive market.
