Google local maps have rapidly been picking up new followers. For years, MapQuest was the place to go when you wanted to find a location on the map, but now Google is catching up. According to Hitwise, MapQuest has failed to grow and in fact, is slipping in the number of visitors it has attracted in the past 6 months.
Traffic to MapQuest has remained flat year on year and is down 20% in the past 6 months. Google Maps traffic is up 135% year on year and is up 7% in the past 6 months. The growth for Google Maps is from traffic from the Google search engine.
At this rate, Google local maps will quickly overtake MapQuest, but that´s hardly surprising, considering the lengths they have gone to create an omnipotent enterprise. The question is, are you using Google local maps to help grow your business? You want to be on those maps. And, getting first position for local searches on Google will help your business, as a map will appear beside the search results, with your business location on it. Most people prefer to click on a map when they do a Google local search, so it really benefits the number one position!
Get Listed on Google Local Maps
To add your business to Google local maps, you need to first create an account at Google Local Business Center.
Go to Add/Edit and fill in your business information. Choose up to five categories that describe your business and add special features like photos or coupons that can be printed out. And there you have it, your very own local business listing on Google local maps.
