There are MANY local search engines that you should submit your website to. Even the big players, like Google, Yahoo, MSN and others are developing their engines to give more local search listings based on geo targeting. If you have a small business, with or without a website you should definitely take advantage of submitting to the popular local search engines. It is easy to get your business listed. Start with the free local search engines and then move on to the paid ones if you feel it is necessary. We have given you a few to start with below.

Google Local Business Center – Google is the largest and most well known of all the search engines and you should definitely be listed in their local section. You can add your company address, hours of operation, photos and more to your Google listing. Your business listings will appear in Google Maps and Business searches. It is free to list your business and Google provides you management tools to add, update or modify your listing. You are not required to have a website, although if you do your listing will provide a link directly to your site. You must have a Google account. If you do not have one you can get one here: https://www.google.com/accounts/NewAccount. The local business listings are updated every few weeks so it could take a little while before you see your listing show up. If you already have a Google account and simply want to add your business listing use this link: http://www.google.com/local/add/

Yahoo Local – Yahoo is also a very well known search engine and provides the ability to list your business in their local listings. They have a basic free option as well as a paid, enhanced option. Business owners can add their business name, website, address, phone number, relevant categories, hours, payments accepted and more to Yahoo local. You must have a Yahoo account, which you can apply for here: https://edit.yahoo.com/registration. If you already have a Yahoo account and simply wish to add your business to Yahoo Local use this link: http://local.yahoo.com/.

Windows Live Local (Bing) – Businesses can add their site and list things like company name, phone number, address and line of business. You must have a Windows Live ID to place your listing. If you do not have one you can register for you account here: http://login.live.com/. Once you reach this page simply click on the link that says, “Sign up for an account.” Once you have your account you can go to: https://ssl.bing.com/listings/ListingCenter.aspx and add your listing. The listing is free but you must receive a pin number before you can complete your listing. Microsoft sends your pin number via the postal service. Microsoft also offers the ability to add new listings, or modify current ones.

Local.com – You can add your business listing for free and you do not need to create any kind of account for the free listing. You are allowed to add company name, address, phone, email, website and choose from relevant categories to list your business. Your listing will appear within Local.com search results and participating affiliate sites. Your site is usually listed within a couple of days. To add your business use this link: http://advertise.local.com/.

InsiderPages.com – You must create a no account in order to create a business listing with InsiderPages.com. With your free listing you are able to add business name, address, phone number, coupon, and the include a map to your location. To add your listing go to: http://www.insiderpages.com/advertiser/sign_up.html.

OK, now you have several ways to increase the visibility of your business online.

Virtual Marketing, LLC is a Colorado based Internet Marketing company that is experienced in all areas of online marketing. You may contact us for a free internet marketing consultation at any time without obligation or pressure.

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