New Google Map / Local Listing Design

I’m in Google Maps every day as a part of my job promoting the hell out of Local Search and I came across an interesting change in Google Maps. When you click on “more info” from Google Maps, but not yet from the Google 10-pack, you get a different, more expanded version of the Local… Continue reading New Google Map / Local Listing Design

Google "Caffeine" Test Drive

Google put out a post announcing that they are allowing the public to test-drive their new “Caffeine” algorithms before they go live on the site. According to the post, the changes will allow Google to “push the envelope on size, indexing speed, accuracy, comprehensiveness and other dimensions”. I tried it for a dozen or so… Continue reading Google "Caffeine" Test Drive

Bing, Bang, Boom

Microsoft launched their new search engine Bing last week. My first impression? It’s visually stunning and looks to give Google some real competition. I’m doing some research into it, focusing of course on how it’s going to play in the local search industry. My focus has mainly been Google and Yahoo, but it looks like… Continue reading Bing, Bang, Boom

Check Your Local Search Rating

So I spent an exciting Saturday night researching new methods for optimizing local search and found a site that gives you a local search ranking! Very exciting stuff for someone who makes his living in local search. Getlisted.org has a simple interface that allows you to enter in your business name and your zip code.… Continue reading Check Your Local Search Rating