Here are my 8 top tips for getting to the top of the Google Places SERPs!

1 See if you are included in Googles’ database by searching for your company in the “Maps” section of Google. More than likely you are already included as Google bought the Thompson Local database in the UK, but if you are not then you will need to “Add your business” using the links on the page.
2 Claim and verify your listing. Google prefers listings who detailed have been verified by the owners. To verify you listing you will be asked to enter a code into your account admin page that will be sent to you by Phone, SMS, or Postcard.
3 Make sure you fill out every section in the information page. This means as well as adding all your contact details that you add 10 pictures, at least 3 videos from YouTube (they do not have to be about you but as long as they are related to your business they will help), a description that includes your keywords and don’t forget the ‘Additional Details’ area this a great way to get some more details of your business onto the page, it is also a great place to insert some of those keywords that will rank well.
4 Make sure that all your contact details are consistent. This is one of the main stumbling points for many people. You must make sure that whenever your details appear on the web, whether it be on your website, a directory or your Google places page, that they are exactly the same. Any small differences like Rd instead or Road, different phone numbers, abbreviated County (Beds for Bedfordshire) can cause real problems.
5 Link your website to your Google Places page. In general Google loves anyone that it sees as an “information provider” and a well optimised website can really boost your position.
6 Get citation links from as many places as you can. Everyone knows that Google loves backlinks to your site but for Places pages it uses citations rather than keyword backlinks. Citations are mentions or your name and contact details which means that online directories are a great place to start. Also look for industry specific directories as I have found that Google often gives more credit for citations from these sites.
7 Get Reviews from Customers. Many people think that this is becoming the most important factor in Google Places SERPs and I think that if they will become more important as time goes on. Talk to your customers and solicit reviews if you can but be sure to add them over a period of time as Google often “smells a rat” if they are all added on the same day. See my post on Online Reputation Management for more details on this subject.
8 Go back and repeat steps 6 & 7 every month if you can. You must remember that SERPs are fluid and change on a day to day basis. As competitors catch on they may try to catch you so its important to stay ahead of the pack!


Call or email me to for a free search engine optimisation (SEO) quote now.
Tel: 01234 317441 or email rob@rsinternet.co.uk