During uncertain times everyone looks for the most affordable ways to drive new traffic to their site. One of the ways most often overlooked by small businesses are free listings through Google Local, Yahoo! Local and Live Local.
Listings are a win-win. Not only are you claiming your business listing and making sure no one hijacks it, but you are also giving your business a fair chance in ranking via local search. With the advent of universal search, most local listings return a map with the top 10 matches.
Claiming and editing your listing is quite easy. Each major search engine features simple, step-by-step directions, the first of which is usually setting up your account. Proceed with “Edit Your Business Listing” and enter the correct contact information - unless you need to suspend or reject the current record – by editing the existing entry. Take your time to correct all information that may not be accurate; be sure to list your email address and add your company's Web site.
Before you continue in the process, I strongly suggest you make sure the location marker is in the correct spot, as it will help customers find your physical location. Next, add any applicable categories; most services will allow you to choose up to five. Don't skimp on this step because each category typically counts as one link to your site; at the same time, don't select categories that aren't relevant.
As you complete the remaining fields, provide as much information as possible: Operating hours, payment options, add photos or videos and anything else you deem relevant. The more information you provide to a potential client the better. After you're finished, click “Submit.”
The last step is to verify your listing by one of two ways, via phone or mail. If you choose the phone verification, make sure you're able to answer your business line to enter the provided pin. If not, or if you prefer to verify your listing via mail, make sure your employees know to be on the lookout for a postcard with the pin number.
Claiming your local listing not only gives your site an advantage during local search, but they provide trusted, valuable links back to your Web site.
Take advantage of these interactive maps and embed one into the content area on your “Contact Us” or “Locations” page. Visitors are able to get accurate directions right on your site and then print or send them to their mobile device. Not only are you helping drive traffic to your Web site, you're also helping all potential clients find what they need – your business.
