You might have noticed that Google search results now show local maps on the right side and local lists (aka like Google Places on Google) are part of organic search results. If you follow the evolution of local listings in search engines since 2007 you will find that local marketing tools are very valuable for any business.
A disappointing problem is that most businesses have not used this local marketing tool. While this industry is 3 years before business, businesses that depend on local geography for their income are not clear that they can actively manage this list instead of paying attention to them passively.
All businesses can use local businesses
First of all, local companies are not small businesses. While we will discuss this in more detail in the future, we must remember that the national chain with a local presence also depends on the local economy for their income. So, it doesn’t make a difference if you are as big as a target shop or as small as a local flower shop, a local list will benefit any size business.
Second, the latest change on Google is a sign notification that this is related to business-to-business (B2) and business-to-consumer (B2C). If you think that B2B will not have a customer post review then you will be surprised. Also, B2B businesses that need revenue from local marketing must take advantage of local lists such as B2C business.
Customers decide for business based on search results
Changes in the latest search results on Google not only display ordinary organic search results, but if there is a local list relevant to the requested search that appears above the fold and tends to display more results than the results of organic websites.
The results of local listings are also interesting because they show little information to local customers or consumers. Of course basic information such as business names, addresses, telephone numbers, telephone numbers, website links and locations on a fairly standard map. However, the number of customer reviews and the average star rating stand out with people’s search. Translated This means customers or local consumers are very quick to see if they want to click on your local business list or contact you.
Optimization is important
Business now has two marketing tools that need optimization: their website and list of their local businesses. Because local business listings effectively are the 21st century interactive yellow pages, businesses need to stop watching passively and actively involved with the list of their local businesses.
This process requires that you first claim your local business list, followed by your initial updates, and then you should consider monitoring and managing the list of local businesses just like your website.
You will find that local business list can actually become a website, but it might be better to use it as a support tool to your main website. So that you appear in search results, you must be sure local business listings have all the right information about your business, product, and service.
It is then followed by adding photos, videos, coupons, offers, discounts, events, and other information that will help local customers decide to do business with you.
Managing your local business listings including managing customer reviews and engages with them not only to secure positive reviews from satisfied customers, but to ensure positive public relations with poor customers.
Finally, the optimization process includes watching analytic local business listings (separate from your website) and make decisions on how to change your list.
