What is Google Places and Why does it Matter?

If you are a local business, or have local offices, that is trying to attract local clientele, then you should have a Google Places page.

Google Places is what is used for both Google Maps searches and regular Google searches that contain a local trigger in the keywords, such as a state or city name. It's a profile page for a business that not only shows it's exact physical location on a map, but also provides contact information, services provided, photos and even customer reviews.

Google Places Page Example

Almost any company that does business locally should have a Google Places page, especially if it's a store, restaurant, health center, etc...

OK, how do you get one? First go to Google Maps and do a search on your own business name. If your company name with a map comes up and you can click on it to get more information, you already have a Places page. If so, look above your listing to see if there is a link that says "Business owner?" if so, click on that.link which will take you through a process to claim your company. Basically you'll need to setup a Google account if you don't already have one,then Google will either call you, mail you a letter, or send you an email that you have to respond to to finish the process.

If instead of seeing the "Business owner?" link, you see a "Owner-verified listing", then you or someone else has already setup your page; you can just review to make sure it's correct.

Once you have your Google account and have been verified with Google, you can now edit your information, such as picking the exact location on the map for your business, your contact information and short summary, your services and even some photos. You can also choose whether end users can input reviews of your business.

So now when someone is looking for your business, or the services you provide, in your local area, your new Google Places should come up as one of the first links. Be aware, it takes awhile for a new Places page to start appearing in search results though.

If you have questions, please contact Ken Sabey by phone (303.506.3406) or email (Ken@WebptOh.com).