GetListed.org: Starter Tool for Local Search Marketing

GetListed.org

has the potential to develop into the ideal starter tool for business owners who want to take full advantage of local listings in major search engines like Google Maps and Yahoo!Local. In addition to the two, the site also checks rankings in Best of the Web Local and Live Search Local Listing Center. Local search is not a huge traffic driver, but it is a good starting point for SEO: statistically, about 70% of the users use a local search engine or directory when they look to purchase products or services. Local targeting enables businesses to go specifically after their “ready to buy” consumers. Local listings give visibility without having to spend a fortune on other search engine marketing campaigns (like pay per click, sponsored listings, etc.). After 10 years of search engine marketing however (since Google launched), there are still businesses that aren’t even familiar with SEO as a general discipline, and they are even less familiar with local SEO. For this reason, competing for high rankings on local searches is pretty easy – in a future article I will reveal a few tips that give good results. GetListed.org offers tools to start a local search SEO campaign. The most popular local search destinations are precisely the four programmed in the GetListed.org LocalDashboard: Google Maps, Yahoo!Local, BOTW Local and Live Search Local. Before a business spends money submitting to other local business directories, they should make sure they get listed in the directories mentioned above.

GetListed.org does not provide an automated submission tool – the site just pulls in information about a company based on company name and ZIP code and offers a general overview about the listings for that company.

Local listing snapshot pulled in by GetListed.org

There are also additional details such as photos, videos and customer reviews that factor into a listing score – a percentage that indicates how effectively a business is listed in the local directories covered by GetListed.org. The site also offers a “to do” panel, links to the directories’ “add listing” submission forms, and tips like why it is important to claim your listings.

Although I was able to check the listings for my own company (Germany based) – the site was designed to serve mainly US-based businesses. It only has company name and ZIP code fields, offering no possibility to select country. I expect in the future to see more directories added – like Craigslist, YellowPages and White Pages and other international directories that will actually make the tool useful for every business in the world. All in all, GetListed.org is a simple, free and effective tool for any small business, and it already got some positive reviews from reputable SEOs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Local Search Marketing

What is local search marketing and why is it important?

Local search marketing is a strategy that businesses use to increase their visibility in local search results on search engines. It’s crucial because it helps businesses to reach potential customers who are located near them. When a business is optimized for local search, it’s more likely to appear in the top results when someone nearby searches for related products or services. This can significantly increase foot traffic and sales.

How can I optimize my business for local search?

There are several ways to optimize your business for local search. First, ensure your business is listed on Google My Business and other online directories. Make sure your business name, address, and phone number are consistent across all listings. Also, encourage customers to leave reviews and respond to them promptly. Lastly, optimize your website for local keywords and include location-specific content.

What is GetListed.org and how can it help my business?

GetListed.org is a tool that helps businesses manage their online presence. It allows you to check how your business is listed on various online directories and provides suggestions for improving your visibility. It’s a valuable resource for businesses looking to improve their local search marketing efforts.

How does GetListed.org compare to other local search marketing tools?

GetListed.org stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. It provides a straightforward way to check your business listings and offers actionable advice for improving your local search visibility. While other tools may offer similar features, GetListed.org is particularly user-friendly and accessible, even for those new to local search marketing.

How can I encourage customers to leave reviews for my business?

Encouraging customers to leave reviews can be as simple as asking them. You can do this in person, through email, or on social media. Make sure to make the process easy for them by providing a direct link to your review page. Also, remember to respond to reviews, both positive and negative, in a timely and professional manner.

How can I handle negative reviews?

Negative reviews can be challenging, but they’re also an opportunity to show your commitment to customer satisfaction. Respond to negative reviews promptly and professionally. Apologize for any issues the customer experienced, and offer a solution if possible. This can turn a negative situation into a positive one and show potential customers that you value their feedback.

What are local keywords and how can I optimize my website for them?

Local keywords are search terms that include specific geographic locations. To optimize your website for local keywords, include them in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs. Also, consider creating location-specific pages on your website.

How can I ensure my business information is consistent across all online directories?

Regularly check your business listings on all online directories to ensure the information is accurate and consistent. If you find any discrepancies, correct them as soon as possible. Tools like GetListed.org can help you manage and monitor your listings.

How often should I update my business listings?

It’s a good practice to check your business listings at least once a quarter. However, if your business information changes, such as your address or phone number, update your listings immediately.

Can I do local search marketing myself, or should I hire a professional?

While it’s possible to manage your local search marketing efforts yourself, it can be time-consuming and complex. Hiring a professional can save you time and ensure your business is optimized effectively. However, tools like GetListed.org can make the process easier if you choose to do it yourself.