Google Maps - Brian Pasch
Google Maps is one of the building blocks of an online marketing presence. Google Maps is free and every business owner should make sure that their brand is registered on Google Maps.
Have you checked your Google Maps listing?
Google Maps is often displayed when a consumer types in a town name or state name with a search phrase. This means that Google Maps is a great place to attract new customers who may not be familiar with the local shops and businesses.
Creating a Google Maps Listing
To register your business on Google Maps, we recommend the following steps:
1. Create a Google account. It's free and simple.
2. Login to your Google account.
3. Search your business name in Google Maps.
4. If your business is listed, "claim the business" listing that is shown on the map.
Once the listing is part of your account, update all information that is requested on the listing and submit the changes.
This may require you to validate your changes via a phone call or via postal mail. Choose the best option that fits your needs. If you have an automated voicemail attendant on your business line, the phone verification will not work.
If you choose a postcard, wait 7-10 business days to get your card. Once you have your card you can log back into your Google account and input the PIN number shown on the postcard. This will activate your Google Maps listing.
5. If your business is not listed, add your business listing. Enter all the information requested and then verify your listing via phone or postal mail.
Google Maps Advice
1. Make sure you enter a valid phone number since the phone number is what consumers will see on the maps listing. Do not use a salesmen's cell phone number or any phone number that will not be handled consistently.
2. Make sure you verify your listing. If the postcard does not arrive, request another postcard. make sure you inform the mail room NOT to throw out 3x5 postcards from Google.
3. A proper Google Maps listing can be leveraged in your Google Adwords campaign so make sure it is active.
4. According to some SEO experts, Google Maps can be a leading source for traffic to your website.
Disclaimer
Google Maps should not be abused. Since we can not control the actions of our clients or random consumers who post on Google Maps, duplicate map entries can be created.
As with all Internet marketing strategies, please be responsible and accept correction and feedback from concerned parties and the unofficial Internet police.
Sharing best practices will yield the optimal result.
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