More than four out of five consumers search online to find local businesses, according to a study. Yet an astonishing 52% of small businesses don’t have a website. For a healthcare facility having an online presence can be all the difference between staying in business or not.
That’s why it’s essential to optimize your web presence, not only for desktop search but mobile search. More than half of all Americans these days own a smartphone and 61 percent use a smartphone to conduct a local business search.
So how you go about getting found online? The answer: make sure your location is optimized for Google, specifically its local search component: Google+ Local.
Google+ Local is Google’s local listing service that provides business details and information about local businesses. This information shows up in search results and is directly linked with the Google Maps listing for your business. A Google+ Local page also contains information such as your business address, phone number and reviews. Once a business claims or verifies its listing, they can add a description, images and additional information to this page.
Ultimately this page can become a powerful online hub for your practice, hospital or healthcare facility. Not only will it give users basic information (contact number, hours of operation, driving directions, etc.), but also integrated social sharing and review features via the Google+ social network, which influences many user buying decisions.
If you aren’t verified already, do it as soon as possible – it can lead to a tremendous amount of new business opportunities. For more information on how to claim and optimize your location on Google+ local contact Wax Custom Communications today 305-350-5700 or visit waxcom.com.
