How to Optimize a Google Places Listing

• By admin
• Jul-07-2011
• • Special Reports

Google Places is a convenient business marketing tool that puts your business’s Place Page in front of internet browsers who are searching for a business like yours, in your area.  This means that millions of people who are looking to find your service or product will instantly be made aware of your business’s location on Google maps, as well as be able to click a link from Google Search results or Google Maps leading straight to your Place page.  Creating a Google Places listing is simple to do and can be completed in a matter of minutes.  Better yet, it’s free.  Put this valuable tool to work for your business by creating your own Google Places listing.  Follow these tips for optimal results:

Write your business description with care. Include important keywords, but don’t just stuff them into the copy.  Use your 200-word write-up as a chance to draw people in.  What makes your business special?  Why should browsers choose you over the competition?  If your business description doesn’t provide compelling answers to these questions, chances are you will be skipped over in favor of one that does.

Create a Places page for each business location. Remember that Places listings are based on location.  If your business has five branch locations, then listing each of the five branches separately could essentially give you five times the exposure.

Do not alter your business name for search engine optimization when creating your page name. For example, if you own a horse grooming business called “Mare’s Hair Affair,” do not attempt to get more search engine hits by listing the business name as “Mare’s Hair Affair Horse Grooming” on your Places page.  Google is becoming very smart to this practice and could likely boot you out.

Ask for reviews. If you have some customers who are outspoken about their positive experience with your business, request that they write a review for your place page.

Use standard terms to choose your business categories. Google lets you choose five categories to list your business in.  Optimize search results by using general terms and avoiding custom category names.

Add graphics to your Places page. Upload pictures and/or videos to your business’s page to make it more appealing to viewers.

List your business in every available and applicable online directory. Having your business listed in YellowPages.com, local chamber of commerce sites, and related trade/industry directories boosts your page’s ranking.

Google Places is easy, fast and free, and you should be putting it to work for your business if you’re not already.  Take optimal advantage of the many benefits of Google Places by following these simple steps and find out what Google Places can do for you.  Call us, Highrise Elite Marketing, where the success of your Google Places page is our specialty.  We can be reached by phone, at (888)520-1769, or by email: info@highriseelite.com