BLOG SEO ENGINE

Any SEO Guide would be remiss if not mentioning Google Local. Google’s localization strategy is in full force and seems to be integrated into more and more search results. Most people don’t fully understand Google Places or realize how they can use "Local" to achieve first place listings and top placements.

The first step is to register for a Google Places account. Start by going to places.google.com and registering. When you do, complete as much information in your profile as possible. The key to showing at the top of a local search results isn’t necessarily distance or an alphabetical listing. Google is searching for relevance.

Relevance is created with a comprehensive description of the services you offer. Even if you’re an online business, you should be developing a Google Places profile and providing as much information as possible. Additionally, you’ll want to take advantage of all the features provided by Google Places. This includes the ability to add photos, reviews, and videos. Google also allows you, using the Google Tags option, to provide special offers or coupons to those who visit your profile.

To optimize your Google Places profile, add as much content as possible. Repurpose videos you’ve created-no matter how basic. Add photos of your business. If your business is simply online, then add photos of your products, screenshots of your website, or any other pictures that are relevant to your business. The final step is soliciting reviews.

Online reviews are driving the Internet. Look at businesses like Amazon.com and it’s clear that reviews are an essential part of any online or offline business. The best way to solicit reviews is to ask anyone of your satisfied clients to post a review. Make it easy for them by providing a link in a follow-up email or posting a message on your website. It’s OK to have a mix of positive and negative reviews. This makes your business appear credible and people have come to expect positive and negative experiences with any business.

Don’t bother paying others to write reviews for you-it’s dishonest. Personally, I have found that when you ask your customers to write reviews, you’ll get plenty. And, the majority of the reviews will be positive. Instead of spending energy trying to bump up your reputation artificially, engage your customers and website visitors.

Using Google Places doesn’t take a lot of work and is rather easy to implement. I’m sure you can buy a book or pay for a Google Places instructional program. Personally, I don’t think Google Places is all that difficult to learn or use. Before you spend your money, register for an account and implement the techniques I’ve already mentioned.

Once your account is up and running, continually add content when appropriate and invite others to complete reviews. The more content you add to your listing (Keyword rich of course) the higher your Google Places ranking will be, and the more link juice you’ll receive.