Small businesses operate in an environment where attention is limited, and competition is increasingly concentrated within neighbourhoods and cities rather than across broad regions. Customers now rely on search engines to decide where to shop, eat, book services, or request quotes, often making decisions within minutes. When a business does not appear in local search results, it risks being invisible at the moment intent is highest. Local search visibility influences foot traffic, phone calls, and trust, making it a practical necessity rather than a marketing luxury. Understanding how location-based search works helps small businesses align their online presence with real-world demand and customer behaviour.   What This Article Covers Local Search Behavior and Buyer Intent Local search differs from general online discovery because it reflects immediate needs tied to a…