Google Places Changes - What to Do?

Ok, by now you may be getting more website visitors. Or fewer.

That’s because Google changed the way it delivers search results for local listings.

For businesses that have a local angle, (like yours) the Google search results are now a blend of sponsored listings,

(at the top) Google Places and organic results.

If you’ve seen a decline in your rankings you need to get back into the game by adding to your online strategy.

Much of what you do now has to be part of a strategy and one that you keep reviewing.

Here are some things you should do.

* Make sure you are listed in as many of the directories that Google takes information from as possible.

* Get links from quality local websites that feature in your locality.

* Utilise a broad spectrum of social media. Video, articles, and quality content to create a deep internet profile.

* Include relevant Places categories in your listing. E.g. Conveyancing, Wills, Probate, Divorce etc

* Utilize long and short tail keywords, while avoiding duplication of keywords.

* Create customized fields and informative business descriptions that utilise relevant keywords for your Google Places Listing.

* Use photos and videos on your Google Places listing.

* Fill out all applicable fields, including Hours of Operations, Payment Methods, and Service Areas.

* Utilize Google Places Posts to keep information fresh and relevant.

* Encourage online customer reviews (be aware of what sites are feeding reviews for solicitors into Google Places).

* Respond to Google customer reviews through Google Places.

* Ensure that your Google Places flag is located in the proper spot.

* Add coupons to your Google Places account

* Try out Google Adwords if you haven’t already and start small and track results.

* Check your Google Places quality against the guidelines Google gives (link below)

http://www.google.com/support/places/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=107528&rd=1

What Else Should You Be Doing?

Reviews of business are now on view so make sure you manage your online reputation.

What to do: Build your reviews as soon as possible.

Initiate a customer testimonial scheme on various online profiles.

Monitor your profiles regularly and respond to any issues that arise;

Come up with a strategy to improve your online reputation and profile, even if it’s already great.

Search for your keywords e.g. solicitors Reading

See who is ranking well. Where are their reviews from?

Get your clients to review you in the same places.

You may want to have a computer in your reception for all your clients.

They can then rate you on various different review sites such as Google/Qype.

Strike while the iron is hot.

PS here's a great book I recommend