Tue, 30 Oct 2007 09:07:51 by Matt Hopkins
We're very excited about Local Search both in terms of its immediate benefits to small and local businesses but also how it will become the foundation for the "next big thing".. Mobile Search.
In order for search engines to effectively deliver "local" results to a searcher, they need to know two key elements - 1) the location of the searcher/user and 2) the physical location of the business behind the website. That way when some submits a search with "local intent" and does not use a geographical indicator, they can still provide relevant results. For example, if I search for "dentist" it is unlikely that I am looking for a dentist in another part of the country and so the search engines will view this type of query as one that has local intent despite the lack of any sort of locationqualifier.
There are a number of methods to ensure that search engines understand where your business is located. These can be both "on the page" by ensuring your address is in the right places on your site and "off the page" by making sure that you are listed in the correct directories and business databases that are ultimately used by search engines to help them fill the gaps in their own lists of businesses.
In the UK, there are several databases/directories that you should consider being listed in and so for those DIY business owners out there, here's a short list:
Naturally there are many more than this - but I hope that this provides you with a head start.
Matt Hopkins
Managing Director |
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