Get Your Business Online with Google! BONUS: What are They Saying About Your Business Online?

Only 37% of businesses have claimed a local business listing on a search engine–that’s a lot of missing information. And with 4 out of 5 people using search engines to find local info like business hours and directions, it also means a lot of missed opportunities for local businesses. Businesses want to be found by their customers. Customers want to find updated information about local businesses. Let’s Put Our Cities on the Map was designed to help strengthen our communities by connecting local businesses and customers so they can easily support each other. In this workshop, we will help you verify your business, make sure your information is complete and accurate, and review other free tools Google has available for increased visibility. BONUS TripAdvisor. Yelp. Google Places. Angie’s List. Urban Spoon. BBB. Facebook Reviews . . . and so many more online directories where a local business can be reviewed. Do YOU know what THEY are saying about your business? Did you know that 52% of consumers report that positive customer reviews make them more likely to use a local business compared to just 28%, who make their selection based on other factors like location and price. It’s time to take control of your presence on external review sites (like Yelp, TripAdvisor, Urban Spoon, Google Places), and give your social media accounts some real estate dedicated to online reviews. In this workshop, we will talk about managing your online reputation and reviews, and how to get glowing, reputable reviews you and consumers can trust.

Speaker(s): Melanie Diehl

Co-Sponsor(s): Station Square, Small Shops Marketplace, Eastern NC Center for Business & Entrepreneurship

Bring your laptop, tablet, or mobile device for an optimal learning experience!

Fee: No Cost