How To List Your Business on Google Maps
Monday, July 27th, 2009You have probably come across the map on top of Google search results page. If you have ever used it, you know the convenience of choosing the business by its location. Need a flower shop? Type it in Google along with your ZIP code, and you’ll have a map of the flower shops nearby. Chances are, that’s where you will go, not to the shop that is 20 miles away. Create a business listing, if you don’t have one. This will almost immediately create a positive effect on your online marketing strategy.
To make sure your business appear on the Google map under your product/service category, you must first find out whether or not you already have a listing. Go to Google Maps and type in your business name, city, and a ZIP code.
1. Your Business Appears On Google Map.
If your business listing appears on the map, that’s great. It means Google has already included you into the Local Business Center Directory. If you have not created the listing and not sure where your business information came from, Google may have received it through the phone company, or through one of online directories. Check your listing information as it may be outdated.
To update / modify your listing, click on a marker which represents your business location (red marker with letters A - Z), and then choose Edit. If this listing has not been previously claimed, you will be able to edit the information. As the last step, Google will have to verify that you are a legitimate business owner. The verification is very simple: automated Google service calls the phone number specified in your listing and gives you a PIN code. You will then have to enter that PIN in your listing. So, make sure you are at your business location when you make listing updates or that you have someone there to answer the phone. If the verification cannot be done over the phone, Google will send you a postcard with the PIN, which arrives within 2-3 weeks.
1. Your Business Does Not Appears On Google Map.
If the business is new or if your business does not appear on the map, you must create a new business listing. Go to Google Local Business Center. If you don’t have an account with Google, create one. You will be able to add your listing once you are logged in. After you enter the information, Google will take you through the same verification process to complete the listing.
Once your listing is active, you will be able to track its performance. Google Local Business Center will report the following counts: impressions, clicks for more info, clicks to your site, clicks for driving directions to your business location, and top search queries.
If you need assistance with Listing Your Business on Google Maps, please call Pro-File Marketing at (702) 233-6939.
