Google Places - Here's How To Profit From It

Hi Everyone,
Nearly all business owners have heard of Google in North America and Europe. However, only a handful are aware of how to use it to grow their business.

Today, I'd like to explore one of Google's tools for business owners to attract more leads - Google Places.

Have you noticed when searching for local services, for example a plumber in your area, a little map pops up on the right hand side of the results page? The map also has lettered pin markers correlating to the website listings.

These are what we call Google Places listings. In a nutshell, they are places near you that are of relevance to your search query.

The business listed in the 'A' slot is the business Google believes is the best result for your search. Google even gives you the option of reading reviews other users have left about the 'place' and make an informed decision on what you'd like to do next.

The question that you probably have right now is: 'how can I show up in that 'A' slot, when somebody local searches for my trade on Google?'

Well the first thing to do would be to let Google know about your 'place' or in other words your business location.

What you'll need to do is log onto Google and search for 'Google Places.' You will then be given a result that will take you to a registration page where you'll be able to sign up for a Google Places account.

Here's a quick tip: before you fill out your registration form, see what your competitors have put on their Google Places page. Emulate what you think is helping them get a first page ranking, it's not rocket science at the end of the day!

What you have to do after registration is provide proof to Google that you can be trusted by their users. The way you do that is by

1) getting listed in other local directories and
2) getting user reviews on your Google Places page and on the other local directories.

The local directories that you want your business name, address and number to be listed on will be different depending on which country you're in. Check out Universal Business Listings for their submission service. For approximately $40, they will submit your business details to dozens of local directories.

What would happen next is Google will notice your details on these other authoritative websites and tick you off as a legitimate business.

To get user reviews, all you need to do is ask your customers. Every time you provide a service that somebody is happy with, ask them to leave you a review. SMS or email them the link to your Google Places page.

If you provide services at your client's location, then simply fire up their computer, log on to the net and ask them for a review there and then - in the most courteous manner of course!

If you follow these simple steps, you will soon find your business in a prominent position on Google and have your phone ringing off the hook.