Did you know?

Google, currently used by more than 65% as a preferred search engine has a FREE way to list your business so you can be found by consumers. Did you know that 97% of consumers search for local business online? What is Google Places?

Google Places is a business listing page within Google Maps. With Google Maps, you can find products or services offered by local businesses. When searching in Google, We have all noticed the appearance of a Map with a listing of related businesses. This is the importance Google places on this service which even out ranks organic search results. A well ranked Google Places listing sends a lot of traffic to a website.

What you should know about Google Places?

Google always ranks higher based on relevance and quality content. They are the best at minimizing spam in search results. Never try to trick or misrepresent. Learn more about Google Places. How can you get listed with Google Places for Business?

1. If you don't already have a google account of some sort (i.e. gmail or google +1 profile etc.) sign up for one.
2. Go to Google Places for Business
3. Select get your business found on Google (Claim your business listing on Google - for free)
4. Add a business
5. Select Country and enter phone # to try and pull up business information if it already exists in Google.
6. Important to know when complete Basic Information Section:

A. When completing this section, it is much more important to use your keyword phrase instead of your company name. Keyword research is a practice used by search engine optimization professionals to find and research actual search terms people enter into the search engines when conducting a search. Search engine optimization professionals research keywords in order to achieve better rankings in their desired keywords. If a consumer already knows your business name and searches by that, you usually rank at the top if you have a reasonable website. When people are searching for a business, they usually do not already know your company name. Therefore, they are more likely to type in a keyword phrase that will immediately finds you if you have done the proper keyword research. If you need keyword research, feel free to contact Business SEO so we can walk you down the correct path. B. In the description area, you want to describe your business in 200 characters or less using your keyword phrases only once. C. For the Category section, search out the most appropriate/relevant categories relating to your business. D. It is always a great idea to add photos and videos when ever possible.

7. Once you have complete as much of the information as possible, you will request Google to mail you a postcard (you need to have a physical mailing address) to authenticate and activate your listing in Google Maps.
8. The Google Places process will take about 3 weeks before you will receive this postcard that will include a link and a PIN # to complete the activation.
9. Once you have activated Google Places, this could take a couple more weeks before you show up in Google Map Listings.

It is always a great idea to list your business so more consumers can find you. Good luck! To learn more about search engine optimization and internet marketing, contact Business SEO for a FREE 1 Hour consultation. Check back regularly for more trips and tricks to a more successful Internet Marketing campaign.