Google places is a service in which a business owner can mark his place on Google maps so that a local search related to that particular business can locate you on the map. Google has provided an interesting statistics which says that more than 97% users use search engine to find a local service in their area. This is what makes Google places essential for business growth. It is a perfect combination of search result with Google Maps to display your business location on the map which makes it easier for users to locate it. The other reason which makes Google places popular is that other local directories are almost dead now and the popularity of smart phones has shifted everything on the internet.

Google places can be a great local service locator for the users hence every business owner should locate their business on Google. But the story doesn’t end at just getting

listed on Google places. In fact it goes further to optimize your listing. Several results show that people hardly go beyond second or third page of search result hence it order to bring out maximum out of your online promotion you should focus on optimizing it as well.

Some of the key things that you can follow to optimize your Google places listings are:

Including product keywords : Google provides you the option to add keywords to your listing so that it can appear on search results. So you should keep in mind that the keywords that you choose should clearly justify your business.

100% Google Listing score : Google places has more than 20 different options to be filled so that you get listed. People generally take it lightly and fill only the common information in the form. But a 100% Google listing score will surely give you an edge over others.

Building external links : External links are always an important part of SEO. The more external links your business website has the better will be your listing in search result.

Getting lots of business reviews : Business reviews will also affect your search listing as more and better reviews will show the amount of customer satisfaction that your business provides.

Adding phone number, photos videos etc : Adding these bits of information will also give you an edge over others. A direct contact like a phone number can also help you attract customers. Adding location photos and videos can also add a first impression over customers.

You should also employ other key search engine optimization features to make sure that you can improve your listing as much as possible. If you have still not claimed your Google places listing then you are surely loosing ground with your competitors.