Local Listing: More and more customers are using the Internet to search for businesses in the
same way they used to use the phone book. They can simply enter their street
address or ZIP code and thenselect the type of business, product, or service for
which they're looking, and they instantly get a list of every compatible
business in their area. By submitting a local listing from a search engine, you
can make sure that your business is found by people down the street who may
prefer to buy directly from your store instead of online.
What Do the Listings Provide?
Think of a local listing as a detailed version of an ad in a phone book. Most local listings include:
- Your business name and contact information (phone number, fax number, email address, etc.).
- A description of the services and products you provide.
- Your hours of operation.
- A link to your business' web site.
- A map showing your location.
How to Get Listed
Getting a listing on a local search engine is as easy as filling out an online form. Many of the large search engines have links to the sign-up pages on their respective home pages. All you have to do is enter the necessary information and set up an account. Here are the steps you'll need to follow:
- Enter all of the required information: Company name, address, and contact information; hours of operation; what type of payment methods you accept; etc.
- Select which categories you should be listed under. Most of the search engines allow you to select categories and subcategories for your business. For example, if you own a pizza restaurant, your main category would be "restaurant" and your subcategory would be "Italian food."
- Confirm your listing. After you enter the information and click the "Submit" button, your listing will appear. Double-check to make sure that everything is correct.
Some search engines offer local listings at no charge. Other search engines offer enhanced listings for a small monthly fee. Enhanced listings include such features as company photos and promotional offers, as well as the ability to access reports detailing the number of users that viewed your listing and how many leads were generated.
Even if your business doesn't have a web site, a local listing can give you an online presence. When customers search for businesses in the area, they usually don't want to purchase online — they are trying to find a store or business close to them where they can shop in person. Having a local listing can bring these potential customers straight to your door.
