Google offers some pretty cool FREE tools that you may want to get on board with, primarily Google Local and Google Alerts.
Google Local (Google Maps or Google Places)
This little tool will get your business on the map. The Google Map.
If you don’t claim your listing, someone else may. And there’s nothing you can do about it! Google takes precautions to prevent this, but your best bet is to claim your listing now. It just takes a minute.
Go to http://local.google.com. In the left sidebar, you’ll see a hyperlink that says “Put your business on Google Maps.†Click it! If you don’t have a Google account, go ahead and set one up. If you do have an account, simply choose Google Places from your main Google Accounts page. Then just follow the instructions to get your business listed. Be sure to fill out ALL of the keywords, etc. Stand by your phone because the verification process involves a phone call. Have a pen handy to write down the verification number. Verify, and you’re golden.
You’re going to see ads about paid listings. You don’t need those right now.
Google Alerts
Find out when your business is mentioned online, and keep your finger on the pulse of topics close to your heart. Google Alerts will send you email notifications when keywords that you specify show up on Google that day.
From your main Google Accounts page, choose Alerts, and click Manage. Type in search terms that you want to be notified about: your business name, your competitor’s business name, your name, your city (for local news), and any other topic of interest (ie: cosmetic dentistry, LVI, sleep apnea dentistry). Complete the questionnaire, and you’ll begin receiving Google Alert emails the same day.
These tips were provided by TNT Dental, a leader in custom dental website design and hosting. Call TNT Dental today to discuss your Internet marketing strategy: 877-868-4932.
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