Why put your business on Google Maps?

Google Maps helps you reach new customers and markets

by Sam Mela

article #000010

How would you like your business to show up every time someone types keywords into Google Maps?

It's easy to do, it's free, and you can add links to your E-mail and Web site, coupons, and photos.

Furthermore, it takes about 10 minutes to put your business onto Google Maps.

Map 1 above is an example of what happens when you put your business on Google Maps. I added an iframe containingthe map to this Web page. That's easy too. Google provides the code with your map, and all you have to do it copy it into your Web page.

How do you do it? Here's how:

Go to the Google Local Business Center. You should see a screen like the one shown below in Screen Shot 1.

Screen Shot 1: Google Local Business Center screen

As you can see in in Screen Shot 1 above, you'll need to either sign in to google or apply for an account. If you have a GMAIL account, you can sign in with that screen name and password.

Once you are signed in, Google will offer you the choice of "Add new business" or "Upload a data file", as shown below in Screen Shot 2. Select "Add a new business".

Screen Shot 2: Select A Business Creation Option

From here on in, it's just a matter of filling in the information that Google requests.

When you get to the "Category" questions, Google will give you popup hints about pre-defined categories. It's good to stick with these, for search engine friendliness.

When you are finished with the main form, don't forget to create some coupons for your business.

As of September 2009, we are still providing free assistance with the Google Business Center; so give us a call at (703) 652-5436.