Google Places is the modern day version of the yellow pages, with a few big exceptions. The biggest difference is that everyone gets a display ad, cleverly called a “Page” (Google is smart, but no one ever accused them of being creative), and the other big difference is that Google Places is free. Your business most likely already has a Page. If you haven’t yet done so, you need to claim control of your page so that you can maximize its impact through customization.
I’ve put together a short video tutorial with three tips to help you maximize the impact of your Google Places Page (the video also shows you how to claim control of your Page). Your page will appear as an option for customers to click in local search results. Take a look at the video and make these three simple improvements to your Page. (Email Subscribers and feed readers, please click here to see the video: Google Places Page Tutorial )
Tips for Maximizing Google Places Pages
I. Get Customer Reviews
Get your customers to review your business on your Google Places page by making it easy for them to do so. Many SEO experts believe that getting reviews on your Places Page raises its value in search engine results. Whether or not that’s true, reviews definitely add credibility to your listing and give it a sense of popularity.
- First, navigate to your Google Places Page. (Tip: Search for your business in Google Maps)
- Next copy the link provided in the upper right hand corner of your page.
- Use a URL shortening service like BUDurl to customize the link and make it more appealing to customers.
- Email the link to customers customers and ask them to review your business on your page (Note: Google says you cannot offer incentives to get reviews).
II. Create Current Content
Google Places allows you to create Twitter-like posts on your page of up to 160 characters. Use the post function to personalize your page with current events, product spotlights, to introduce employees, or a myriad of other possibilities.
- First, log in to your Google Places page.
- In the upper right-hand corner look for the heading “Post to your place page.”
- Type in up to 160 characters to update your status.
- Click the “post” button.
III. Add Photos and Videos
This is a really useful function because it adds the personal touch to your page while providing vital information to potential customers. You can add up to 10 images and five videos to your Google Places page. Use them to introduce the owner and/or employees, showcase products and services, even video commercials. To post videos, you will need to have videos hosted on a YouTube account. Images may be uploaded from your computer or shared from another source on the web.
- First, log in to your Google Places page.
- In the right hand column, click the “edit” link in Your Business Info box.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page where you will see the options to add photos and videos.
Google Places is your friend, get to know and use your friend. For more information, take this nifty tour: About Google Places: Place Page Tour
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