Optimizing Google Places

[PMC-312087]

Hey everyone,

Trying to improve my Google Places page for the Pet Medical Center of Las Vegas but am having trouble knowing where to start. There doesn't seem to be a whole lot that can be customized. Maybe I am missing something.

http://maps.google.com/maps/place?hl=en&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&biw=1370&bih=718&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=pet+medical+center+of+las+vegas&fb=1&gl=us&hq=pet+medical+center+of&hnear=0x80beb782a4f57dd1:0x3accd5e6d5b379a3,Las+Vegas,+NV&cid=13431404354265657899

Does the small description act like the SERP in Google searches? Trying to rank for Vet Las Vegas.

Any ideas?

[MBayes]

"Trying to improve my Google Places page".  Not sure if you are trying to improve the places accounts rankings, or the look and feel of the page itself?

You can add up to ten photos on the places page, I would utilize as many as possible.  You can also add you tube videos, and those can be very effective.

As for rankings, I would encouage customers to review the business directly on the Google places account, and add an Angie's list business account, as these show up on the places listing and can help rankings.

Hope this is helpful.

[lhc67]

You can start by claiming & completing your listing. Make sure that it is complete, with a good description, images, special offer, relevant categories, etc.

Next, start compiling citations. I like Whitespark's Local Citation Finder - http://www.whitespark.ca/local-citation-finder/. He's a fellow Mozer too! Make sure to be consistent with how you list your business.

I'd recommend reading http://www.davidmihm.com/. David Milhm's site offers some great insight to local search.

Also, take a look at the sites that have high visibility. What citations do they have? How many reviews, what does their profile look like?

Good luck!

LHC