Changing Landscape of Local Search and Maps

Fri, 07/27/2012

A lot has changed over the past couple months in regards to Local Search and the changes are going to keep coming through the fall.  By now everyone is aware of Google+ Local and what you need to do in order to optimize your Google+ Local Page. 

A couple weeks ago, I talked about the importance of optimizing your local directory listings or citations across the Internet.  Well Yelp, the popular online local business directory, has positioned itself as a major player in the world of Local Search.  

For a long time, Google relied heavily on Yelp’s business listings and reviews for influencing rank.  However, Yelp was not happy about its content being displayed on Google’s Local Search Results since it looked at Google as a direct competitor to its own website.  After a failed acquisition, Google has since stopped this practice.      

We now know that Yelp is powering Bing’s Local Search and Reviews and will also supply information to Apple.  

Apple is set to release its iOS 6 update in the fall to all iPhone and iPad devices.  The update will mark Apple’s launch into Local Search with a new Mapping App powered by Yelp. 

As if this wasn’t enough excitement for Local Search, Amazon has also recently announced that it will be entering Local Search with its recent acquisition Upnext. 

So what does this all mean?  It is more important than ever to make sure that your Yelp listing is claimed and optimized.  

I sound like a broken record, but it is vital that you do the following:

  • 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

What’s next?

  • Reviews
  • Reviews
  • Reviews

Watch our latest video to learn more:

~ By Nathan Bendzewicz, Internet Sales Consultant