---
title: Optimizing Google Places
description: Tips for making the most out of a Google Places listing.
---

[Blog ](https://www.client-bridge.com/blog)

# [Optimizing Google Places](https://www.client-bridge.com/blog/bid/61296/Optimizing-Google-Places)

 Written by [Staff](https://www.client-bridge.com/blog/author/staff) | Tue,Aug 23, 2011 @ 03:00 PM

Google Places is a free listing service for local businesses that allows customers to find things like address, hours of operation, and store photos. James Dunaway on BloggingPro gives some tips on how to optimize a businees listing on Google Places.

**Get Verified**  
Verifying your listing ensures that it will show up on Google search engine results pages. Verification can be done through Phone SMS, Phone Call or through mail. Google will provide a PIN for you to enter into your account.

**Build Citations**  
Building strong citations of your business address and phone number on other listings and sites will cause Google to rank you higher.

**Don't Use Your Primary Keyword in the Business Name**

**Use a Local Phone Number**  
Google will rank local numbers higher than toll-free numbers.

**Use the Same Address and Phone Number in Your Website**  
This is in-line with building citations.

**Reviews**  
Allow reviews on your listing. Encourage customers to share their experiences.

**Images**  
Add up to 10 images. Upload your logo. Include keywords in image names.

**Get Star Ratings on Google Results Pages**  
Google displays star ratings for businesses with at least five reviews.

**Reviews from Other Sites**  
Google checks the following while ranking Google Places listings:

- Yahoo
- City Search
- Insider Pages
- Service Magic
- AVVO
- Angie‟s List
- Judy‟s Book

**Category**  
Choose the best category that suits your business but never use keywords.

[View Original Article](http://www.bloggingpro.com/archives/2011/07/22/10-tips-to-optimize-google-places-for-best-results/)

[View full post](https://www.client-bridge.com/blog/bid/61296/Optimizing-Google-Places)

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