SmallBusinessNewz

About a month ago, I talked about the importance of you business being found in Google Maps, and how they added some new features for AdWords local business ads for Google Maps. Recognizing that many businesses are not utilizing Google's Local Business Center to its potential, Google has shared a video to help educate those who are simply not familiar with it.

With the Local Business Center you can add the following information pertaining to you business to Google Maps:

- Name
- Address
- Phone Number
- Descriptions
- Photos and more.

Here are the steps for getting set up:

1. Go to Google Maps

2. Click "put you business on Google Maps"

3. Sign in or Create an Account

4. Click "Add New Business"

5. Enter your business information

6. Click "Next"

7. If it shows your business is already on there, click "claim listing"

8. If it's not there, click "add listing"

9. Then you can enter additional details such as business category, opening hours, photos, payment options, etc.

10. Click submit

11. At this point, you will need to verify you business by phone or postcard. After you are verified, your info will appear on Google Maps.

12. Later on, you can go back to Local Business Center to edit your information, see how many people went to your listing, or create coupons.

That's about all there is to it. Not a whole lot of work for potentially a whole lot of exposure and added convenience for customers looking for what you offer. It probably won't hurt to take a few minutes and do this.