Have you heard about Google’s new project “Let’s Put Our Cities on the Map”? Launched in late March, this program offers resources to business owners so that they can get started building their online presences. It also offers the option for official city partners to join up. Alternatively, if you are already on Google Places, you can claim and correct duplicate or erroneous listings.
Where do I find this site?
The website is GYBO.com. When you navigate to the Let’s Put Our Cities on the Map website, you’ll see a local version of the page. So whether you’re in California or Alaska, you’ll see a town close to you–one that’s relevant to your local searches. You’ll also find an FAQ, free online business tools (such as videos and tutorials), and a free scan to find out if your business information shows up on Google Places already.
What if I don’t have a website?
If you don’t have a website, Google offers a free domain and hosted website through StartLogic. However, it should be noted that this website is only free for one year, and they do not offer maintenance–that is up to the customer.
Of course, you don’t have to go through Google and StartLogic to get a website. You can go with any host of your choice and still submit your site to Google. There is no penalty for choosing another service. In fact, we offer affordable website packages with customization options as well as hosting and maintenance.
What if I find my listing, but it’s incomplete or incorrect?
Using the free scanning tool (this will open up to our city, Santa Ana, CA; however, you can enter your own city!), Google will find out if your listings are present online, and also if they are completely filled out. If they are not complete, the website will guide you through updating your listing so that Google can index your listing.
Why should I bother with this? Can’t someone do this for me?
According to Google itself, “businesses with complete listings are 2x as likely to be considered reputable by customers searching for services.” That means that if you have a completely filled out listing with accurate information, customers are more likely to choose you over your competitors. When people search for goods and services online, they usually choose from the businesses listed at the top of the results page–those that are active, have good reviews, and information on business hours, contact information, and website links.
So you can follow Google’s steps and make sure your business listing includes hours, phone number, address, photos, reviews, and website. You can also hire someone to help you–not only can they get your site listed on Google, but they can also get you listed across many directories as well as help you with social media, website hosting, and marketing. In fact, that’s exactly what we do–so if you’re looking for help, give us a call.
Internet Local Listings is an internet advertising company in Santa Ana, CA, serving clients across the country with the best website marketing services available in the industry. Visit us here for more information, or give us a call at (888) 770-3950 to discover how we can help you be seen online.
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