Google Places Optimisation
Google now integrates Google Places listings with organic results, giving these listings greater prominence.
SEO is far from dead, however as you can see from the following screen shot, organic SEO results are now second to Google Places results. Places results are triggered by searches paired with a geographic context. In the example below: Key Phrase “House and Land Packages” + the geographic context: “Perth”.
Google Maps, officially known as Google Places operates on a different algorithm to organic SEO results.
Why do I need an Optimised Google Places account?
- Geographically triggered Places listing can appear higher & larger than organic results.
- Listings represent physical businesses and thus customers closer to a purchase more readily engage.
- There are only 7 places position available, to appear you must beat your competitors!
How to Optimise your Google Places listing
Google Place Optimisation shares a number of factors in common with Search Engine Optimisation, however there are some key differences.
Relevance
Google Places Optimisation requires both the on page optimisation of the target website and the optimisation of the Google hosted Places page. (Example right)
Authority
Without giving too much away I can say that Google is looking for 100% on-page website & Places listing optimisation, + the creation of business citations, SEO link building, and on an off page reviews. To optimise your Place listing you need a hollistic approach covering the points above.
What kind of improvement can an expert make?
What rankings will I achieve?
Google Places is a long term investment and it is important to recognise that some key phrases will be more competitive than others.
- No responsible SEO company can guarantee rankings. Don’t be scammed, be sure to read the Google SEO Guidelines
Conclusion
- Not all SEO companies understand Google Places, nor are they equipped to meet the requirements.
- Google Places is critical for local search optimision as listings are larger and higher than traditional organic results.
- Traffic from Places is free, however with only 7 places available it is imperative to secure your position by employing an expert.
Proof of concept
Whilst working at SUMO Digital Agency I recently optmisation Satterley’s Google Places listing. They are currently (April 2011) enjoying numerous #1 rankings for highly competitive key phrases.
I aim to work with companies and people who are ready to benefit from marketing with a measurable return on investment. If you’re ready to get started, feel free to call and tell me who you are, I’ll do my best to guide you through the options and I look forward to your call. Contact
