How to Add Your Business to Google Local Listings and Be Found

Posted by Jeff on March 19, 2011 under SEO Services | Be the First to Comment

Google Local Listings

If you are a local business with a physical address the best and most rudimentary marketing tactic is to be in the Google local listings or sometimes called Google Maps listing, but now officially called Google Places. If your store front is not on a Google map your store front mind as well not exist. 10 years ago if you wanted to find out a business address or phone number you went to the Yellow Pages. Today people just type in the business name or category into Google and expect to not only find the address and phone number, but a map that directs them how to get there. If you are using a mobile device like an iphone you want to simply tap the phone number and be able to call the business.

If Google doesn’t “pin drop” your business I’m going to show you how to do it for free. Do not pay anyone to do this for you. I recently met a lawyer who paid someone $3,000 to have his business added to Google Maps. This folks is an outright scam! Believe it or not there are some Internet marketeers out there that want to take advantage of your lack of Internet marketing expertise. Ok with any further adieu:

Step 1: Go here: www.google.com/local/add

Step 2: If you do not have a Google account then sign up for one. If you do then sign in with that user name and password.

Step 3: Enter Your business phone number

Step 4: As long as you have an established brick and mortar business Google will have no trouble finding the address and “pin dropping” you.

Step 5: Click the edit button and you will be able to fill out a more detailed profile of your business. You can add:

• Contact information
• Website Address
• Business Description
• Business Category (Note: 1 category has to match one of Google’s preassigned categories) You can add up to 5 categories. I recommend adding all 5 categories. The other 4 can be targeted Keyword phrases customers would use to find your business.
• Hours of operation
• Payment Options
• Photos
• Video
• Additional Details

Step 6: Submit the business profile. You will be able to choose a method of verification either phone or “snail mail” e-mail is not an option for verification. Phone is the quickest method. Mail will take 2-3 weeks.

Step 7: Google will give you a pin number (either by phone or mail). You will enter that pin number into your Google Places Dashboard. This will verify your business.

If you run into any trouble or if this too advanced please contact me. I will set up your Google Places for FREE!