Local Search Optimization Tips

Local Search Optimization is a must for today's Small Business Owner. Most SMB's realize the importance of ranking within Google's "Organic" listings as a way to create awareness and drive traffic to their website or store, but many may not realize that Google's local search results (aka Map results) have taken on increased importance.

There are a few simple rules to follow when optimizing your local business listing for Google. The first, and most important step, is to ensure absolute consistency between name, address and phone number among the numerous city directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages and City Search. Also, make sure that you list this same information in the footer of your website. Again, this information should match the directory information. If you have moved, or the business had previous owners, and the website address changed, this old information may still be lingering. It's essential that incorrect information be corrected so your Local listing can rank as high as possible. Here is a list of the most important directories to check:

1. Yelp
2. Superpages
3. Citysearch
4. Yellowpages
5. Infogroup
6. Yahoo Local
7. Localeze
8. InsiderPages

Only after you have cleaned up your directory listings should you claim your Google Places  page. Claiming the listing itself is a straightforward process. Read more about claiming your Places page.

Optimizing your Places page can be complex, but essentially you want to do the following:

-List your business name exactly as it appears on your website and other listings
-Select the categories that best describe your business. Use all 5 available categories, and use at least one of Google's suggestions.
-Upload all the maximum number of photos and videos allowed.
-Fill out the additional information in the listing including services offered, hours open, etc.
-Encourage your customers to submit reviews!

This last point is essential. Getting customer reviews (and not reviews you and your co-workers have created :) tells Google that your business is active and involved with the community. From a technical SEO standpoint, those reviews act as backlinks and will help boost your Local listing.

For more tips and advice on how to optimizing your local listing, I encourage you to read David Mihm's Local Search ranking factors http://www.davidmihm.com/local-search-ranking-factors.shtml.

Good luck on getting your local listing claimed and optimized!