Professional Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

59 Professional Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Citations have a similar effect on local searches as backlinks have on regular website

listings. Try to get your website address listed on as many websites as possible to

show Google that your business is real.

Ranking element 5: data consistency

Your business name, address and phone number has to be consistent across the

different websites that list your business. If your business is listed with different

information then this could be interpreted as a spamming attempt.

Ranking element 6: you must have positive reviews

Google Places is basically a recommendation search engine. They recommend local

restaurants, plumbers, hotels, etc. in the search results. If the recommended

businesses offer poor products and poor services then people wouldn't continue to

use Google Places.

Positive reviews and ratings help Google to gain more confidence in your company.

The more positive reviews your company has, the better. Encourage your customers

to write a positive review if they are satisfied with your products and services.

Ranking element 7: proximity to the searched location

If your business is located near to the searched location then it is more likely that it

will be displayed in the search results. If you have a hotel near the Museum of

Modern Art then it's likely that Google will show your Google Places listing for search

terms such as "hotels near moma".