Google Places Which approach is better?

3 replies
Here is a question for all the Google Places experts on the WF

Is it better to contact a prospect and tell them they have an unverified listing (and them offer to help them optimise it) or is it better to approach them and tell them that we can get them on the first page of Google etc. But NOT mention that they already have an unverifed listing?

My thinking is that if I tell them they already have an unverifed listing then they may just try doing it them selves. Whereas if I don't tell them then I have a better chance of getting the job myself.

Which approach have you found best?
#approach #google #places
  • Profile picture of the author theaer
    Hey Aussie,

    I've found coming in as the 'expert' is the best approach. If you establish yourself as secure and confident, people are naturally enticed to work with you.

    Anyway, I've found that by approaching local business owners and letting them know that I can help them rank higher in organic listings and showing them that it starts with claiming their Google Places listing, I come across as authentic and sometimes gain the business.

    My hit ratio doing it the other way is equal, as far as percentages go... however, there are fewer second-questions if you do your research first and let them know that they are lacking even claiming a free GP listing.

    My two cents, really it comes down to adapting the information you have with your presentation style. Just be confident in either approach and you'll find your hit ratio increases.

    Best of luck!
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    • Profile picture of the author iInvent
      This might be a reallllly basic question but I need to ask!! I'm completely new to Google Places. How can you tell if I listing is unverified? :confused:
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      Thanks for reading!

      Chantal
      "Before you try to satisfy the client, understand and satisfy the person."

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  • Profile picture of the author Kung Fu Backlinks
    At the top-right of the listing, you'll see one of two messages:

    "Owner Verified Listing" with a checkmark or "Business Owner?"

    Unverified listings have the "Business Owner?" link there.

    As far as your approach, Aussie... I would avoid the "get you first page of Google" talk, as business owners hear that ALL the time. I would approach it as "people are researching your company, and when they find an unverified listing, without pictures, videos, business info or reviews, it makes you look unprofessional." And THEN I'd mention how competitor ABC has done everything right, but you can do better. Heck, offer to walk them through the process on the phone and show them one you setup as an example. Once they see the great work you've done for another, they'll likely ask you "how much?"

    Of course, if you haven't done one yet, offer to do one for free for a local business you frequent. If you have an example to show them, they'll be more likely to buy from you.
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