How to claim your Google Local Business listing

Would you like to be on the first page of Google?

Every business owner would like to appear on the first page of Google, but many don't realise that it's relatively simple to do so, at least for searchers from your local area. In 2009, Google started to include its local search results in the main search results, even when a geographic name wasn't included in the search.

This means that if your local listing is complete and well optimised, you could attract signitficantly more business. You may find that you already have a Google Local Business listing that Google has gained from another source such as a local directory. It's important that you claim your Google Local Business listing before someone else does. There have been examples in the US where Local listings have been claimed by competitors, phone numbers have been changed and site owners have lost business, simply because they were unaware of their Google Local Business listing.

Please note that to add or claim a Google Local Business Listing, you'll need to have a Google account. If you already use Adwords, Analytics or Gmail, use the same account details, otherwise, you'll need to sign up for a new account.

You then need to Go to Google Maps or Google Local and search for your business. If your business doesn't exist, then you need to add a new listing. If it is already there, you need to claim your listing.

How do you add a new listing?

If your business isn't listed, adding it is a simple process.

1. Log into your Google account then select 'My Account' from the top menu.
2. Select 'Local Business Center' from the list of options.
3. Click the 'Add new listing' link.
4. Enter your details business details.
5. Verify that you are the business owner (see below).

How do you claim an existing listing?

Claiming your listing is a simple and straightforward process.

1. Go to Google Maps or Google Local and search for your business.
2. Click on the 'more info' link next to the business name.
3. Click on the link 'business owner?'
4. Click on add new listing.
5. Enter the same information as is shown on the listing and click 'next'
6. Google will then search for matches. Click 'claim this listing' next to the listing that you wish to claim.
7. Verify that you are the business owner (see below).

How to verify your listing

1. Once you've added or claimed your listing, you need to verify that you are the business owner. Click the verify link and Google will call you back, send you a text message, or send you a postcard with a PIN number.
2. You enter the pin number.

That's all there is to it - you then have control of the listing and can edit and optimise it at your leisure! Good Luck!