Getting Found on Google Places

Google Places allows business owners to create and manage listings that appear in the “Local business results” section of Google’s search results page. When customers search for local businesses these results appear at the top of page one and provide a great way to drive traffic to your website, for free. Well almost free, it will cost you some time to setup.

Google compiles information from several online sources and local directories to create a database of local businesses for Google Places. Claiming your existing listing or creating a new listing allows you to manage the Places Page for your business. You can upload pictures and important information for your customers like hours of operation, service areas, and a brief description of your company.  

Having a Google Places page means your business can be found in your local area even if you don’t have a website.

Getting started

Go to Gmail and setup a new email account to manage Google Places for your business. You can use this Google account to manage all your locations. Once you have created the account do a search for “Google Places” and click on the Google Places link. Here click on “List your business” then you can enter your country and local phone number, this will search for existing listings that you can claim or create a new listing. After submitting your listing it’s time to verify.

You will need a verification code to complete the validation process. You have options of phone or mail. The phone option is quick and painless and mail is that old fashioned non-electronic type that takes two to four weeks. You may also have an option for SMS if your business number is a mobile phone number.

When you have received your code, login to Google Places and enter the verification code. You can now edit your page, upload photos, video, and business information.
 
Current Availability

Google Places is not yet available in all countries. To see a list of countries where Google Places is currently available do a Google search for “Mapping tool availability” and click on the first listing.

This article was posted by Alan Astley. Alan is a SEO Campaign Manager at Traffika. You can follow Alan on Twitter @alanastley.