subject: Google and Yahoo Local Maps for Online Marketing [print this page] With millions of people using the Internet and the Worldwide Web for shopping, communications, and business, reaching your targeted segment online becomes easier each day. No one can promise any method of marketing brings in 100% results. However, the bigger the marketing mix, the better your chances are for success.
An email campaign marketer should use every resource available to create buzz about their company, product, or service. The acceleration of knowledge and technology is growing and changing at lightning speed. Sometimes is seems that we will never be able to keep up, but keeping up and staying on top, are the key elements of remaining competitive.
Marketers are very resourceful people, constantly looking and searching for the latest new technology to help their business be seen and heard. Well Google and Yahoo are actually out there helping. Not only do these tools work, but they are free!
Google Local Maps: There are so many ways to be found on the web. When people are searching for products and services, does your business come up on top? Do you know how your business ranks in the search engine results pages (SERPs) Some marketing analysts have stated, it may take from 3-6 months to gain good rankings. Is there a way to expedite your business ranking? Yes, with Google Local.
1. Go the Google Maps. Click "Put your Business on Google Maps." - If you do not have a Google Account, take a few minutes to set one up.
2. Log into Google with your user name and password. Click on "Add New Business". Note: If your business has more than one location, you will need to create an excel spreadsheet and use the selection "Upload a Data file."
3. Fill in all the information You will be able to edit, add photos, etc. after completion Please read paragraph on top of the website page before going on. Review all your information before hitting next and submitting.
4. You will have the choice to be contacted by phone or by post card via mail. Make your choice and hit submit.
Once you are confirmed, check to see if you are coming up with your search tags in the listings. Google suggests 7-10 days. Some people have found their listings within hours of verification.
Yahoo Local Maps. Yahoo combines a search engine with a yellow pages style type listings. Yahoo gives most of its space to business listings, while providing a tiny map in the left column.
Go to Yahoo Local Maps. Click Sign up.
1. Fill out all the information provided on the screen.
2. Review and submit. Yahoo states it will take around 3-5 business days. Check your submission status at: http://local.yahoo.com/ for questions or to contact Yahoo Local, go to this link: http://help.yahoo.com/l/us/yahoo/local/
Be aware, that Yahoo gives paid ads more prominence than Google.
Use every tool available to help create a buzz about your business or service. In today's Internet marketplace, you need to be a very active player. The tools are there, using them is up to you.
