Google for ‘leeds builders’ and you’ll see a map right at the top of the search results with the most relevant businesses pinpointed on the map along with their business name, website and contact number to the right.
The map you’re seeing is powered by Google Maps and you can get your business listed on there by using Google Local Business Center. This sort of advertising works great for local businesses which operate in specific geographical locations.
If people are looking for a builder, plumber, cinema or restaurant for example, they’re more likely to prefer ones which are in their local area as this keeps traveling costs low. We can apply this logic to some keyword research to find out if it works. Search for ‘leeds restaurant’ – you’ll see that again, Google Maps along with the businesses are listed right at the top of the search results. Using Google Keyword Tool we can find out how many people in the UK are searching for ‘leeds restaurant’ per month: 33100
I think a figure like that proves that it matters to get your business listed in Google Local Business Center, especially since the map takes up a large amount of space in the search results.
You’ll have to experiment to find which searches Google provides the map view for. I recommend searching using ‘location’ followed by ’service’ eg: ‘birmingham architect’ or ‘leeds hairdresser’.
You’ll need a Google Account to add your business to GLBC, if you use Google Mail, you can use that account to log in. Once you’ve filled in contact details for your business and the address, you can add opening hours, payment options and upload photos. You’ll need to verify that you’re the legitimate owner of the business which is done by entering a PIN which can be sent via text to a mobile number listed in the contact details – this is the easiest option.
