How to get a Google Maps business listing
If you own a business, you should be aware that Google is changing its search engine in a way that will help you get noticed online - but only if you act now! The new change is generically called "local search" and it helps online searchers find nearby companies and services via Google or other search engines. Here's how to check and see if you are listed and, if not, how to get your business listed. Plus, I'll be giving you important tips that will help improve your Google Maps ranking.
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Instructions
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The first step is to see if your business is listed on Google Maps. Let's try an example: Let's say you own a dry cleaner company in Smalltown, NV. You would type this in the Google search bar: Smalltown, NV Dry Cleaners.
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Google will then show you what they call the "ten pack". This is the top ten listings for dry cleaners in your town. If you don't appear, click on this list and you will see a longer list that consists of all the dry cleaners in your town that Google knows about. To create this original list, Google used certain business databases compiled by companies like Acxiom. If you were not on a database, then you are probably not listed on Google.
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If you are not listed, you can create a free listing on Google. You simply log on to the Google local business center to create your listing. You are required to have a physical address associated with your business - they don't call it Google Maps for nothing! There is a simple verification process to ensure that a real person is registering a real business. Currently that verification is conducted by an automated phone call or mail.
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Tips & Warnings
Want to move your listing to the top? It's easy. Google want to put the companies that provide the most information at the top of each search. The more information you provide, the higher you will rank. Google provides a free "mini-site" that allows you to add more data to your listing.
Google allows you to link to a YouTube video that showcases your business. Google really likes video, so if you put a video on YouTube, it will help you rise in the rankings.
Does my advice work? I am at the top of the listings in my town for "small business consultant". My competition is every ad agency, college professor, and tax advisor.
