One way to leverage Google’s magic is to claim your Google Places for Business listing. In addition to setting up your Google+ profile, taking the time to fill in key information about your business on Google Places gives you a better shot at showing up in the maps listings and getting you seen by local searchers.
1. Set Up an Account with Google
In order to access Google’s free tools, you need to have an account. Once you’ve completed this step, make your way to the Google Places icon within your account profile.
2. Add or Complete Your Business Listing
Google may have populated your business listing with data they’ve found from reputable sources. That said, it’s important to add or modify your listing with more specific information coming from you. Include your business name, description of what you do, contact information, your business categories, hours of operation and photos.
3. Verify Your Listing
Google offers two ways for you to prove you’re the owner of this listing – by phone or by mail. If you select phone, Google will call you with an automated message sharing your unique PIN# to verify your listing. If they require verification by mail, please note it may take a week or two.
So what will Google do now that you updated your business listing? According to their support page, they state the following:
“We use listing information to help us understand more about a business, so relevant listings appear in search results across Google, such as in Google Maps, Search, and Earth. We’ll continue to provide information about your business in these different searches.” – Google
In other words, claim your listing and you’ll increase your chances to connect with more people searching online!
If you would like a more detailed step-by-step guide to walk you through this process, please contact us.