Google Local Business listing

  • Go to Google My Business. And then click on “Get on Google”
  • Enter Your Business Name and Address in the Search Box.

  • Select or Add Your Business.
    Click on your business listing if it appears among the suggested matches. If not select “Add your Business”, and provide the necessary information.

  • Verify Your Business
    Google will want to verify that your business is located where you say that it is. This usually means waiting 1-2 weeks for a postcard with a verification PIN.
    Occasionally you’ll be given the option to receive your PIN by text message or or automated phone call – take it – it’s much faster and easier!

Google Local Search Ranking Factors

Results
  • Using up-to-date contact information, physical address information, operation hours and photos on your Google Places account.
  • Maintaining consistency in NAP (Name, Address and Phone) between your Places page, website and Google+ Local.
  • Choosing an accurate business category.
  • Using a product or service-based keyword in the business title.
  • Using a location-based keyword in the business title.
  • The proximity of the business to the center of the specified search location.
  • High number of reviews.
  • Owner-verified page.
  • The length of time your brand has been on Google+ Local.
  • Having a complete profile.
  • Having videos with high-quality content associated with your Google+ Local page.

The Role of Social Media

For a local business, social media platforms play a significant role in deciding its local search ranking. Social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, YouTube and many others give a wide array of opportunities for positive brand exposure to your local audiences.

  • Gaining Google+, Twitter, Facebook and other social media site mentions of your brand.
  • Having a large number of likes on your Facebook page.
  • Encouraging content shares on Facebook.
  • Having inbound links pointing to your site from discussions on local community forums.
  • Encouraging check-ins from mobile social networking apps, such as Facebook and FourSquare.
  • Associating your brand page with social media profiles of top local experts and bloggers.
  • Having a high user engagement rate on your social media profiles.