Google Places has grown to become one of the fastest growing online directories on the web. As more people use Google search on their computers and smart phones, Google Places has grown to become a great resource to find local business. And like anything on the web, there are always tricks to make sure your listing is optimized to its potential. Here are my top ten Google Places recommendations:

1. Google Places Account Login: When creating your Google Places account, use a login directly related to the name of your business. Google recommends this process as a way to ensure that the person creating the listing works for the company. For example if you are creating a listing for Aviatech, the email address being used to create the listing should be name@aviatech.com
2. 100% Complete: Make sure to fill out each listing completely, this gives your places listing better ability to rank as well as have as much information available to your customers.
3. Title/headline: Only add the true business name in the title of the listing. Do not add any additional information including location or services. This goes against Google guidelines and your listing can eventually be taken down if not meeting these requirements.
4. Contact information: Show your true address and contact phone numbers. Also add servicing areas where applicable to give customers a better idea of the areas you service.
5. URL:  Make sure to add the proper URL destination most relevant to your business.
6. Description: Make sure to create an enticing and informative description of your business. Also make sure to add rich content containing related business keywords.
7. Categories: Add as many categories as possible (5) to your listing. Make sure to add the relevant categories suggested as well as your own custom categories.
8. Photos/Videos: Add attractive and enticing photos and videos for your potential customers to view. As with your website, you want to showcase your best work and work to engage the customer.
9. Reviews: Promote reviews as much as possible from your customers. One of the biggest ranking factors for Google Places is the number of reviews your listing is receiving. Work to promote reviews in other ways such as adding a Google Places link to your website, email or referencing it in service follow up emails/mailers.
10. Verification process: If you have only a couple listings to verify, it is best to individually verify your listings. If you choose this option, you will receive either a postcard/phone call giving you a PIN number to verify your listing. If you have multiple listings, Google suggests doing a bulk upload/verification process.
    

    By: Kristina Gonzales