Summary
This document is a report detailing the findings from SOCi's 2024 Consumer Behavior Index (CBI), which surveyed 1,002 U.S. consumers about their interactions with local businesses. The report outlines key insights into consumer preferences, emphasizing the importance of online profiles for local businesses. It reveals that a significant majority of consumers search online for local businesses, with platforms like Google Maps and Facebook being particularly valued for their helpfulness. The report also discusses generational differences in platform usage, noting that younger consumers increasingly prefer social media for local searches. Additionally, it highlights the critical role of peer recommendations and timely responses from businesses to online reviews, indicating that consumers expect meaningful engagement from brands. The findings suggest that local marketers should focus on maintaining accurate online information and actively engaging with customers across both search and social platforms to foster positive relationships.
