As you may already know, Google Places has now become Google+ Local. I am sure some of you are wondering what is going to happen to your business now that these changes have gone into affect. As a business owner you will be happy to know that the sooner you familiarize yourself with the changes, the quicker your clients can start interacting with you on a higher level than what Places was offering.
Here are some important things you need to know to help get you started:
Social Networking. Compared to the yellow-pages concept of Google Places, Google+ Local is definitely an upgrade.. In order to claim your Google+ Local page, you need to create a Google account first (if you do not already have one). This account will automatically link you to their social network which is a large community of businesses, customers, and even some potential customers that you can interact with in a variety of ways including posts and private messages.
The new review format. Customer reviews are without a doubt one of the primary focuses of and they are actually more advanced than what you might be used to. Fortunately, they also come with some great advantages. To leave a review, someone must be logged into their Google account so no more anonymous reviews (and hopefully less spam reviews). You can communicate with reviewers directly which helps you build relationships with those who leave you a review.
User ratings. Currently (this may change in the future), the Zagat scale (as opposed to the previous 5-star scale) is used for ratings. Customers rate your business from 0 to 3 in several categories related to your business and you can receive an overall rating of up to 30. This rating system is better for potential customers and gives you much more information if you are looking to improve.
What happens to your Places listing? I have good news! Fortunately, the big “G” allows you to switch over fast and simple. You just need to transfer your Google Places listing information over to your Google+ Local account.
Take advantage of everything Google has to offer by enlisting the help of competent professional help from someone like me, Glennette Goodbread owner of Premium Web Design. I can be reached by phone, at (229) 888-0931 | Toll Free 888-832-2542.
Glennette Goodbread, Owner
Premium Web Design and Hosting
