Google Places Marks the Future for Local SearchJust when we were all getting comfortable with local search, Google decided to turn it all upside down with the launch of their Places Search feature. This new kind of local search organizes information around specific locations making it easier for users to compare places and decide where to go. If you have looked for a company using Google local search within the last week or so, you may have noticed a number of changes to the results page, including the following:
Google Places Key Advice Points
Google Places is building in web intelligence!A Google Place Search result will begin appearing automatically on Google when they predict you’re looking for local information. Their goal is make it faster and easier for searchers to find the local information they are looking for that will ultimately help them decide where they want to go. |
How are changes to Google Places going to affect your Business? |
| Google’s launch of their “Place Search” is the equivalent to the yellow pages, however far more advanced. This means for business, an optimized web presence is a “must” if they want to attract local customers online. Experts are saying that unless businesses have engaged in long-term search optimisation including organic, local and social, they will likely be impacted by this change.For example, the fixed-position map now located on the right-hand side of the page moves pay-per-click ad positions down the page. It also hides their ads and continues to draw attention to the Map as they scroll their way down the page. Essentially, Local search results are now much more prominent on the page, pushing general content down the page.
Online reviews and ratings also have more prominence on the page (appearing alongside the listing). This makes online brand credibility and brand reputation management critical for businesses that appear in a local search result. Early testing indicates that listings from third party directories are also being pushed further down in Google’s results pages, by listings of companies who have combined a solid web page, with their Places listing and customer reviews. Attend Our Google Places WebinarThese new adjustments are a real game changer as far as local search is concerned. We invite you to learn more and get answers to your questions by attending WSI’s special webinar on November 23. Register now. 23rd November 4pmYou will need to enter your time zone when signing up for the webinar. |
What Can You, As a Business Do To Stay Competitive? |
Google Places Advice on The Latest Changes
It is now more important than ever for businesses to claim their Google Place, complete their company profile to 100% and ensure they have a well-optimised site with relevant, localised content to ensure strong visibility. Here are 10 things you can do to optimise your ‘Google Place’ listing.
Google Places 10 Point Advice Plan
Step 1. Make sure you select relevant Place categories
Step 2. Use long and short tail keywords and avoid duplication
Step 3. Create customised fields and complete business descriptions using relevant keywords
Step 4. Integrate photos and videos into your listing
Step 5. Fill out every applicable field possible, including hours of operation, payment methods and your service area
Step 6. Use Google Places Posts to keep information current
Step 7. Encourage online customer reviews
Step 8. Respond to reviews through Google Places
Step 9. Make sure your Google Places flag is in the correct spot on the map
Step 10. Add coupons and experiment with Google Tags
WSI is hosting a special webinar on November 23rd where our Internet marketing experts will discuss what you need to do to ensure your local listing is optimised effectively. Register now. When signing up you will need to enter your own time zone.
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