Citations More Important Than Links In Local Search?

This tweets came about because I found this amazing article by David Mihm about how citations are more effective than links in increasing your ranking in the Google local directory. This could be one of the most important things in local search marketing. Just think of the power when you combine you business info (or citations) and a link online. Like David said it’s the, “new ‘gold standard’ for local linkbuilding”.

Tweets:

• Do you know what a citation is? It is when your business name, address, & phone number are cited online. It helps your google local ranking
• New evidence showing that citations are more important than links in Google’s Local Search directory. Must Read http://is.gd/pMC

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Mobile Internet, Zip Code Targeted Ads, and More…

Updates:

• Is mobile Internet going to change small business marketing? I think so. See the future from this Businessweek article? http://is.gd/nXx.
• Can Google Target Ads To Your Zip Code? Yes. Google Adwords allows you to do it. To learn more about recent updates go to http://is.gd/njK.
• New tool for SMB’s http://branddoozie.com helps extend your brand. Not a perfect system, but it’ll help those who don’t need a unique design.

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Yelp Opens Doors To Customer Conversations

Yelp could potentially be one of the most powerful tools in your search arsenal. It is one of the best places to get reviews, and it is a great way to interact with your customers.

Tweets:

• Have you discoverd Yelp yet? It has great tools for businesses http://biz.yelp.com. It let’s you join in the conversation about your biz.
• Respond to customers on Yelp and help out with any concerns that they have. Be real, don’t get defensive about negative reviews.
• If Yelp works for you, think about getting more involved. Use their sponsorship program to update customers on sales and other events.

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Keeping Track of Your Online Leads

Keep track of your online leads. This is vital to help you know if what you are currently doing is working. Use google analytics and then measure call traffic with a program I just found out about Mongoose Metrics. Tweet of the day:

• How are you keeping track of your online leads for your Business? Do you have a special phone number? Are you keeping track of emails?

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Online Reviews Are Key To Local Business Success

Without reviews you will have a hard time ranking in the local directories. You will also have a hard time when people are comparing you against someone who has reviews.

• You must ask for reviews. Ask for them on a comment card or ask your best customers & clients next time you see them. It never hurts to ask
• To get reviews, use your opt in email list. Make sure you have permission to send emails, then ask them to write a review and provide a link
• I think one of the best ways to get reviews from your customers is to do something great. Go above & beyond. Make yourself worth reviewing

Posted in Google Local Business Directory | Add Comment »

How To Use Video To Improve Your Directory Listing.

Tweets:

• Give your customers something special. Give them a video. Google local directory now let’s you upload youtube videos. More to come…
• Maybe you show your latest commercial. Or batter yet, you show them your business. Show them what you do, your products and your services.
• Tell them your story in video. It doesn’t have to be amazing footage. Keep it simple & to the point and you’ll be rewarded for the effort.
• When telling your story in video, include your unique selling proposition. This will tell them why to shop with you and not walmart.
• It doesn’t take a huge investment in time and money to make this video. Make it as simple as buying a Flip. http://theflip.com/.

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