How to claim your Google+ Local page

Google has recently changed the way that business owners claim their listing from Google+ Local. The format is still easy, but requires a few steps and attention to detail is required.

For the sake of this example, we’re going to use a Toronto based restaurant that hasn’t been claimed yet.

Step 1: Search for your business on Google by using your businesses phone number.

The business we’re looking for is called Shopsy’s Deli & Restaurant.

Step 2: Click on the link that says Google+ Page located directly below the description of the business.

Step 3: You will be taken to the Google+ Local page where you will see information about your business. Some listings might already have reviews, whereas others might not. Once you’re ready to claim your Google+ Local page, click on the “Manage this page” link on the bottom right hand side.

Step 4: Once you have clicked on the “manage this page” link, you will be taken to an actions page. This page will present you with three options. Once you’ve confirmed that this is in fact your business, select the first option “Edit my business information”.

Step 5: Fill out your business information as much as possible. The more information you supply here, the better it is for your business. Be sure to include images, videos, description of your services, etc.

Step 6: Once you’re happy with your details above and you have submitted it, you will be presented with some validation methods.

• Phone
• SMS
• Postcard

My recommendation is to verify using SMS if that option is available. Otherwise, phone is just as good. The postcard verification takes far too long and should be avoided unless it’s the only option available.

Step 7: Once you have submitted the request above you will receive a notification with a pin to enter into the respective input box.

Now you should be good to go with your Google+ Local page. We will provide some next steps on how to market your Google+ Local page soon. Stay tuned.

If you’re having trouble on how to claim your Google+ Local page, feel free to contact me.