How to Get Citations in Google Places

Google citations help people find your business.

As a business owner, an online presence can play a major role in attracting new clients and customers. Businesses that receive the most citations rank at the top of Google searches in a special section called Google Places. You receive a citation whenever Google finds a website that mentions your business name, phone number, address or other related information. You cannot add citations directly to your own Google Places listing, but there are several ways to influence Google to cite your business.

Instructions

1. Encourage current customers to leave reviews for your business on review websites. Reviews increase your credibility in Google Places.

2. Submit your business's website to local search directories. To find these directories, search Google for the name of your city or county, followed by "business listings" or "directory."

3. Create a profile for your business on social networking websites such as Twitter, Facebook and Quora. Always include your business's address, phone number and website in the profile.

4. Search Google for your city and industry. Examples of industries include clothing sales, vehicle repair and dentistry. Click the "Discussions" link on the left side of the search results to see forum posts related to your industry. Use these forums to promote your business.

Tips & Warnings

• If you change your business's phone number or website, remember to update it with Google Places to avoid listing incorrect information.

References

• Intence Media: How to Get Google Places Citations
• SEOmoz: Google Places Citations: 5 More Tactics to Earn Links for Your Local Business