Optimize You Business for Local Search Step 1: Create Listings

Don’t worry about getting listed on every search engine. There are four top players in the local search game. Focus on them and you’ll be set. (Read the post Optimize Your Business for Local Search for a basic introduction to local search.)

1. Google Maps http://maps.google.com/
   Search results are shown in the local one-box also known as the local 7-pack or 3-pack depending on the number of business listings available. Google pulls data from online yellow pages and business listings so there is a good chance that you already have a listing. If you don’t claim your listing then a competitor could and steal your business. Use the Local Business Center to claim or create your listing and add goodies about your business.
2. Google Mobile Search http://www.google.com/mobile/
   Uses your cell phone to triangulate your location so search results are relevant to your immediate area. Since it’s a Google product, some of the data from your Local Business listing will be included but you should still make sure it is complete and accurate.
3. Yahoo Local http://local.yahoo.com/
   Search results are shown in a 3-pack. While Google listings are totally free, Yahoo offers a free basic listing but charges a small fee of $9.95 per year to add extras like photos and videos to your profile. It is worth the 10 bucks to have your business stand out in the crowd. Yahoo also places a lot of weight on the number of reviews for where a listing ranks.
4. Bing Maps http://bing.com/maps
   Use the Bing Local Listing Center to fill-out your profile. The algorithm is murky so don’t focus too much on Bing. A complete profile should be sufficient.

Check back tomorrow for Step 2: Beef Up Your Listings which includes suggestions on how-to make your listings stand out in the crowd.