Google Local Places Plus Business Review and Stuff [Web Wednesday]

I’ve heard it called Google Local.

I’ve heard it called Google Places.

I’ve heard it called “The place where my disgruntled ex-employee left me a bad review.”

It’s now called Google+ Local, and it’s where millions of people can learn (and learn more) about your business.

It’s that place on Google where people typically first find you on their mobile device, or if they’re searching Google and have no particular business preference.

Ever type in “BBQ restaurant” and see the map come up with a few listings lettered “A” through “F” or something? That’s Google+ Local, and those listings can all be claimed, monitored, and edited by the business owners.

And if you haven’t claimed your page, then you should do so.

Today.

Here’s what people are doing with help from google:

Now, you have the opportunity to edit up your listing in a safe, secure manner.

You can include pictures, videos, your store hours and other stuff.

You can officially respond to reviews – authentic or otherwise.

But first you have to claim your listing. Don’t worry – they set it up so you have to either be at your listed address or be at your company’s official phone. It’s very difficult for your competitor or wackjob ex-employee to claim to be you.

But – to make super-duper-sure they can’t. Do it yourself today by starting at the official homepage and following the simple steps.

Then, do the same with Yahoo!, Yelp, Angie’s List, and the other service directories where people can find you.

Is it a bit of work? Yes.

It it worth it?

What do you think?

(Web Wednesdays are a weekly feature on The Daily Blur focusing on how best to use the Internet to help your owner-operated company.)