What is Google Local Search?Why do you think Google invented the local search listings? Was it to give big businesses even more ways to rank above you? If you’ve thought that, you’re mistaken. While many large businesses do use these Google listings to reach their customers and gain sales, local search listings actually make it possible for the little guy (like you and me) to rank above the industry giants.Why do you think this is? Well, when people search for movie theaters, stores, malls, hairdressers, restaurants; you name it, they’re looking for something nearby. Whether they’re travelling and are unfamiliar with the area or have lived there for years, they’re looking for you and what you offer…not some other town hundreds of miles away.And when local residents want to find a plumber, a lawn care service, or an insurance agent, they do the same thing. They go to Google and type in their city name and the service they want. According to Google, over 50% of the searches they get every day have “local intent” like this.Create Your ListingSo how do you take advantage of this intent? Well, the first you need to do is build a Google local listing. It’s fast and free to do and here’s how to get started today.Step 1: The first thing to do is to sign up for a Google account if you don’t already have one. If you already have a Google account, just go to www.google.com/local/add and you’ll be prompted to sign in.Once you sign in, you’ll be redirected to a page where you need to select the button that says “Add New Listing.” Now you’ll fill out all the fields with your information including its name, address, e-mail address, and other contact information including your main site URL.How to Choose Categories for Your ListingStep 2: When it comes to categories for your business, the examples Google gives would make you think you should choose broad, overarching categories. Your listing will do much better, though, if you consider these as keywords and make them very specific instead. For example, instead of putting “Dentist,” put “Pediatric Orthodontist”.Step 3: Make sure you fill in the hours you’re open as well as which forms of payment you accept. That way your future customers will be fully aware and prepared. You should also add a few (10 – 15 is plenty…even 5 would do) pictures to your profile. These could be pictures of your, your business location, and maybe some products if it makes sense.Step 4: All in all, try to add as much as you can about your business so people will see you’ve put in the effort and will begin to build a report with you before they ever call or visit.Note: If you don’t have a physical business location, that’s alright. Just list your post office box or mailing address so people know where to contact you.Once you’re sure everything’s correct and just like you want it, click submit and watch your business’ popularity grow! Of course, if you notice a mistake, you can always go back and change it later.