Are You Using These Strategies For Your Google+ Local Page?

Mon, 06/25/2012

Over the past couple weeks, we’ve heard a lot about the merger between Google Places and Google+, now called Google+ Local.  Whether the change brought about excitement or frustration, I think it’s important to keep it in perspective.  

Claiming, optimizing and becoming active on your Google+ Page, while important, is still just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to SEO and optimizing for Local Search.  

Many online directories offer free business local listings or citations.  Good or bad, they often list your business information without you knowing, often times with errors.

Where to Start
Although there are new directories popping up all the time, there are about 10 that carry more weight because of their rank and traffic.  The following is a list of top directories that you should be aware of:

If you are just starting out, the most important and basic tasks to complete in your listings/citations are:

  • Claim your business listing - Set up an account on the directory so that you are in control of what appears in your listing.
  • Correct any errors
    • Business name is spelled correctly and completely.
    • Address is current.
    • Phone numbers are accurate.
  • Add links to your website
  • Add your business categories
  • Add a description and history about your business

Advanced Strategy
If you’ve already completed this list, there a lot more advanced activities to help boost your Google+ Local listings. One strategy is to dive deeper into optimizing your listings/citations.  Your listings/citations are free one page websites on the Internet that you need to start optimizing, like your full website.  This includes:

  • Adding photos
  • Driving Directions
  • Soliciting reviews
  • Working on your link building strategy

Link Building
A good starting point for link building on your listings is to incorporate them in the blogs and articles you write.  Again, treat your listings as websites. When writing a blog or article, create links within the body anchored with relevant keywords that direct readers to your listings page.  The goal is to create traffic for your listings and as a result build your relevance.

Watch our latest video to learn more:

If you are not satisfied with your Google+ Local results, or your Web marketing firm is not addressing this critical area, please give us a call -

800-916-3886

~ By Nathan Bendzewicz, Internet Sales Consultant