Webfusion

Today, local consumers are finding new ways to connect with local professional services. From finding a reliable home renovation contractor to a local medical specialist, Internet resources have helped to aggregate reviews, listings and recommendations which are invaluable to consumers and local business owners alike. In order to begin reaching prospective consumers, you should secure a business domain name and web hosting package to build out your site, and then begin promoting it via major local search engine listings:

Google Maps
As the single largest source of local listings, Google Business Listings provides search results on the search engine, as well as syndicating listings to a variety of sources, ranging from AOL to iPhone. Getting your business listed on Google requires a phone or mail verification, and gives you the ability to promote images, special offers and your company site to local searchers. Additionally, Google provides data on the number of consumers who viewed and clicked on your listing, allowing you to evaluate the effectiveness and reach of the listing.

Yahoo Local Listings
A basic local Yahoo listing allows you to add your business information, including physical address, phone number and web site address, according to a specific business category. Consumers will be able to view map directions to your location, as well as viewing your hours and product selection directly from the search results. With mobile applications, consumers will be able to access your business listings on the go, further extending your company’s reach to a variety of Yahoo search destinations.

Microsoft Live  Local
By syndicating your site across a variety of listing options in the Microsoft local network, including Live Search, MSN and other properties, you can get your business features on MSN Web and Mobile properties. Additionally, MSN powers search for sites such as Facebook, giving your business further exposure to social media consumers.

Adding your site to local search engine directories will help your business gain important visibility and local leads. Increasing your visibility through web search can help you generate business and grow your client base during a period of economic recovery and beyond.