Register with Google Places – Local Search

Google Places Example

Google Places Example

When Google detects a search based on a physical place, it will return a set of place based results. This may be in the form of a small map of the area, with local businesses highlighted.

These are promoted within and alongside other organic search results, so it is a desirable position.

Google puts a lot of emphasis on local search, and has a comprehensive Google Places programme that covers it all.

If your business is location specific and you want your business listing to appear in Place related results, you have to register your business and verify with Google Places. This does 2 things:

  • lets you be included in organic searches that Google associates with a place
  • lets you be found via Google Maps searches

Tips:

  • When you first register, have your mobile phone with you.  Google will send you an SMS to your mobile phone containing the PIN number that verifies your business and allows you to complete your Places account.
  • You will need to know the mobile phone network, as well as your mobile number.
  • When you receive your PIN number via SMS, enter the number on screen immediately.
  • Once you’ve verified, you can go back and add all your phone numbers in.
  • When registering use the same Google account you use for your Google Analytics.
  • Have your Google Analytics account open in the same browser, while completing your Google Places account application.
  • Check your website includes your physical business address – either in your Footer* or in your sidebar.

*To update your Footer on an OM4 website, use Dashboard, Appearance, Site Design and scroll down to the Footer section.

Google Places Registration links:

Already registered and want to find out how to improve your rankings in the Google One Box? Read Improving Your Rankings in Google Local Search.

When you register you’ll get the chance to upload up to 10 photos for your business – make sure you load your best photo first, as it may start to appear in the result pages along with your page listing.

Once your business is registered with the search engines, you should also register with relevant directories that record a local address for your business. There are many, many options to choose from, the list below may get you started for listing an Australian business.