If you've searched Google for a nearby business, chances are you're familiar with local listings, often plotted on a map central to your location—and if you're one of those businesses hoping to be found by consumers searching locally, it's critical to understand the value of a well-optimized local search presence.
On June 11, Google introduced "Google My Business," previously called Google Places, which it hopes will encourage small businesses to become more engaged while improving the user experience and simplifying businesses' management of their local business information.
Though Google My Business does streamline and centralize information, it doesn't offer any revolutionary improvement. Instead, the platform establishes an unbreakable bond with Google+, with the expectation that managers post regular, relevant content.
All said—it's reasonable that a strong G+ presence will be equally as important as Facebook and Twitter to maintain visibility in local search. Do you need guidance with your search marketing strategy? We can help with that.