Google Local Goes 1 Step Further
Google has just finished the worldwide roll out of local map search results, the maps will on most occasions now appear even when you don’t type in your search location.
For example, in the past if you lived in Brisbane and searched for, “Brisbane Restaurants” you would have a list of result on the map and then the natural search results. Nnow if you search for, “restaurants” it is likely the map will appear with a list of restaurants from the Brisbane area. Google will use your IP address to guess your location, if you find it to be wrong, look for the change location link on the top right hand side of the map (map source – Google).
How Do Get Listed In Google Local Search Results?
The first thing you need to do is create yourself a business listing here – Google Local Business Center
There is no clear cut logic to what order Google will show your business in the top 10 local results, if at all. A great was to start is filling in all the required fields to list your business, insuring you use keyword phrases in the description and categories. You may also want to contemplate using keywords in your title, for example if you live in Brisbane and sell Blue Widgets you could make the title,
Brisbane Blue Widgets – Your Business Name
The number of reviews for your business also seems to help your display ranking, so now would be a good time to email your customers asking them to write a review. If you find you are not getting displayed in the local results, feel free to contact us for some advice.
What are your thoughts on the extra addition of local maps to general searches?
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