Google has announced that it will be adding a new feature to its map service called “Local Business Listings”. This is an exciting development for small business owners who want to get their businesses listed in the local search results of Google and other major search engines.
The Local Business Listing feature allows you to add your business information to Google, Yahoo!, Bing and other local search sites. You can also include photos, videos, reviews and more.
The Local Business Listing feature is currently available only in English but Google says they are working with partners around the world to roll out this feature in multiple languages.
Once you have registered, you can choose from one of three categories:
• Add Your Business – If you already have a website or blog, you can use this option to add your business information directly into Google.
• Add Your Business Photos – Upload up to 10 photos of your business. These images appear at the top of your listing when people search for your business name.
• Add Your Business Videos – Upload up to 5 short (less than 3 minutes) videos about your business. These videos appear at the top of the page when someone searches for your business name. The videos must be less than 3 minutes long.
If you don’t have a website or blog yet, you can still create a free account by clicking here. Once you have created your account, you can start uploading your business information.
To begin creating your listing
Step 1: Select the category you would like to list under.
Step 2: Enter your business name and address.
Step 3: Choose whether you would like to
• Add your business photos
• Add your business video
• Add your business description
Step 4: Click Continue
Step 5: Fill out the rest of the form.
Step 6: When you are finished, click Submit.
Your listing should now show up in the appropriate location on Google Maps.
This new feature could help increase traffic to my site. It is estimated that over 50% of all online searches are done using Google. So if you are not listed in Google, then you are missing out on potential customers.
This new feature may also help boost sales. According to a recent study conducted by Search Engine Watch, nearly half of consumers say they trust local listings as much as personal recommendations.
Now that you have added your business to Google, you will need to wait until Google approves your listing.
When Google approves your listing, you will receive a notification email.
After receiving approval, you will see your listing pop up in the appropriate location within Google Maps.
Now that you have added your listing, you can continue to optimize your listing so that it appears higher in the search engine rankings.
For more information on how to optimize your listing, connect with us
