Top 7 Placement
For quite some time, local (SEO) search engine optimization services have revolved around getting clients to the top of the first page results by following best practices and optimizing for local search ranking factors. Organic search had its paid advertising counter part in Google AdWords, and although one could link their local business center listings with AdWords, the fit wasn’t as snug as it was meant to be. Recently, Google launched its local listings ads service within Google Maps, and also will be available as part of regular AdWords. Google is finally making it easier for the average SMB to grasp local search advertising.
Local Listing Ads Provide
1. Ads shown on Google & Google Maps.
2. Flat monthly fee based on your location & business category.
3. Keyword management & tracking.
4. Free call tracking, announcing each forwarded customer call "This caller brought to you by Google!".
5. Full reporting on the number of calls, clicks to your ads, requests for driving directions & clicks to your info window on Google Maps.
Threat to IYP & Other Local Advertising
Internet Yellow Pages (IYP) type sites have lost a ton of market share to the search engines with the advent of local search results being integrated into universal search. The erosion of users visiting these sites to obtain local business and service data will continue with a steady pace, but the real affects will be accelerated on the advertiser’s side.
Local Listing Ads are bound to be a boom to (SMB’S) Small Businesses despite concerns related to placement, ranking factors and costs relative to a SMB’s service areas and operating industry. The availability of free call tracking is just another way Google is bringing back its old news paper and radio advertising solutions granular call tracking, which again solidifies the benefits of investing in search. This is an opportunity that most IYP’s have long ignored, because despite doing measured ad studies for research purposes.
For SMB’s that have lost advertisement positioning, it’s time to either optimize your listings further by contacting your SEO company, or getting in touch with Hi-Speed Marketing.