What is Google Places?
Great question! Google Places is a road map to local businesses. It’s a free and easy service offered by google to help localize businesses. This is one of the very best techniques you can use to obtain local business for your site. Even if you are on the 10th page with your keyword, you will still be on the front page when searched locally.
Why does it matter?
It just matters! Google researchers have concluded that 1 out of every 5 search queries are location related. If you have multiple locations, it can increase your traffic immensely. It’s also pretty obvious that the conversion rate coming from local searches are much higher. People just feel a lot more comfortable when they can do business in their own town!
Information to give Google Places
1. Business Name – It’s always best to use your business name that you branded for. If you haven’t done any company branding, then your second best bet is to use the name that you registered.
2. Physical Address - No PO boxes. Google does not want you registering in every town in America. Your real physical address is very important.
3. Phone & Fax Numbers – It’s important to include all your phone numbers. Local, Fax, Toll-Free, Support, whatever it may be. Having a dedicated line for support is just professional.
4. Web Address - This is pretty obvious. You want people to convert, and your site is their first impression of you. This is a SEO website, I shouldn’t have to explain why this is so important!
5. Business Category – It’s very important to be specific and not go crazy with this. You don’t want to waste man-power tending to the wrong people.
6. Images – Logo’s, product images, and don’t forget pictures of your building. This is associated with google maps, so if you’re in a hard to find place, this could really help out customers that are driving to you.
7. Videos – They allow videos. This is important only if your industry requires it. If you already are taking advantage of instructional videos with YouTube, then go ahead and spread the love here.
8. Additional Details - Google Places offers you the option to add in extra details. You can offer brands, services, anything that applies to your business. It’s a nice little add-on to your keywords.
9. Locations – If you have multiple locations, then you are in luck! You can be listed on multiple local search results. Review this list and do it for all your locations!
Also, it’s always a good idea to read the rules before trying any funny business.