How to Get Your Local Business Listed in Google

Statistics show that nearly half of all internet searches have local intent. In other words, roughly one out of every two searches are performed with the goal of finding information about a local business, organization or event. Owners of local businesses should capitalize on this trend by making digital marketing a key component of their overall marketing strategy. So, if you’re a local business owner, consider the following tips to get your business listed in Google.

Create a Google My Business Listing

One of the first things you should do is create a Google My Business listing. These listings are designed specifically for local businesses, with Google displaying them at the top of its search results (for relevant local searches), as well as Google Maps. Creating a Google My Business listing is completely free with no strings attached. Once you’ve created a listing for your business, users can get turn-by-turn directions to your business using Google.

AdWords

For maximum visibility in Google, consider using the search giant’s paid advertising service, AdWords. While all businesses can benefit from AdWords advertising, it’s particularly effective for local businesses. As explained in this help article, AdWords support location targeting. When creating an AdWords campaign, you can specify the locations — countries, cities, territories or radius — in which your ads will display. Therefore, you can set your ads so that only users within a reasonable distance from your business will see your ads. Using location targeting is a highly effective way to boost your AdWords return on investment (ROI) and drive more customers to your local business.

Search Engine Optimization

Of course, you should also use search engine optimization (SEO) to get your local business listed in Google. Being the world’s largest and most popular search engine, Google does a pretty good job at discovering and ranking websites without any additional help. Assuming your site has content, Google will probably find it. However, you can encourage Google to rank it high in its search results by optimizing it.

Known as SEO, this is an excellent way to boost your local business’s visibility in Google. First, you’ll need to identify target keywords, which are the keywords that you want to rank for. After identifying your target keywords, you can begin creating content, building backlinks and performing other on-site and off-site optimization tactics. When done correctly, Google will respond by ranking your business’s website high in the search results for those keywords.