Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Are any small businesses taking advantage of Google’s strategy to link consumer reviews to organic search results. Trend data would support that more consumers are using Google to find local businesses when they have a need. They are using a basic query of “keyword” city, state. For example if you’re looking for a Chiropractor in Scotch Plains, NJ, you would enter “Chiropractor Scotch Plains, NJ”. For many searches like this Google is returning their bubble map on page one with local businesses and they are linking consumer reviews from multiple review sites like, CitySearch, Yelp, Insider pages and many more.

It would seem to me that this is an excellent way to attract customers at virtually no cost. Local business owners would need only to have their customers provide reviews and have a web site.

Since authentic consumer reviews are the most credible form of advertising in their ability to attract and close high-value customers. This would seem to be an incredible opportunity for quality local businesses.

Am I missing something here, or is no one talking about it because there is no money to be made from it?

Unless of course you are in the SEO industry. SEO (city) no longer returns the Google local map results. Google isn't being very helpful for those of us that are very good with optimizing for Google local. They do however show those of us good at ranking orgainically.

Those who pay attention to Google on a daily basis have probably noticed a lot of complications lately. Local organic listings can be beneficial, if it is working right. I would never say do not do it, but don't make it your main keyword to focus on. Broaden your horizons and take over many keyword listings to get an even better reputation online.