Google is the dominating search engine and one that majority of people turn to on their computers when they are looking for something. The current shift away from using desktop computers and into using the mobile and tablet has changed the way people search, but only a little bit.

The rise of apps has meant that we don’t necessarily search for things with a search engine but rather use an app for finding a restaurant, for example.

Yet there is one prominent Google service that you still need to pay attention to and that is Google Places. Here are five reasons why you can’t forget about Google.

1. Still The Most Relevant

There is no denying the fact that Google has a big upper hand against other local listings like Yelp or Foursquare. Although these are still good listings to sign up with your business there will always be more advantages for using Google Places.

Google has such a strong expertise in perfecting search engine functions that it is really important to take advantage of their products.

2. Allows Multiple Locations

If your business also works in multiple locations it is really simple to add all branches to your profile. This can ensure that your business is listed to people in various locations and that they can always find your office.

So make sure that you always include all locations, even if it is just an office space it can still improve the way customers find you.

3. Provides Reviews

Google Places also allows customers to review the businesses that they have been to and this is really important for getting your business improve its search engine ranking. You want to get people talking about your business and encouraging customer reviews is a great way to become more prominent business in your field.

4. Localisation Is Essential

In order to attract the right customers to your business you want to of course make sure that people near your business find you. Google Places is great for optimisation of local SEO and therefore essential for any business.

You also don’t necessarily need to use localisation in your searches in order to get local results. Google can get your exact location from GPS in smartphones and thus people who are near your business can find you really quickly.

5. It’s Free To Use

One thing that makes Google Places also an essential listings program to use is the fact that it is free to use. This means that small businesses don’t need to find more money to advertise but can get the same amazing benefits that bigger companies with more resources have. So make sure to sign up your business with this free service.

The above reasons are some of the most important reasons why you should start using Google Places. Although it is important to make your business visible in many online listings it is a good idea to start with Google Places.

It is simple to use and will provide your business a lot more internet presence.

Our guest blogger, Jonathan, is always looking for more information about various Google products and how entrepreneurs can use them to benefit their business.