It is widely accepted and recognised that an important method of improving the performance of your web site is the power of search engine rankings.

With search engines now using the latest innovation of local maps and searches it is vital to feature well in these searches. Recent research suggests that consumers are turning to the internet for local searches and information ahead of the normal publications like yellow pages etc.

The process involves someone using a local search for information and has no intention of booking or purchasing on-line. The problem for a business is when someone turns up at the establishment unless a direct question is asked such as “How did you find us” it is increasingly hard for that business to monitor it’s advertising and marketing.

The current research on this new and constantly changing area of search engines, Suggest that as with general search engine rankings the criteria needed to improve your ranking should be addressed as follows:

• Put the name of your town in the title tag and description page
• Make sure your physical address is at the bottom of every page
• Include detailed directions on how to reach your business
• Don’t forget your telephone number with the dialling code
• Make sure to build links from local directories
• Get listed in Google Local

Research shows that 75% + of all business activity including services and shopping takes place within a 5 mile radius of most peoples homes. The difference comes from the old days of picking up the yellow pages and now when people prefer to log on and find the same information. The advantage for local businesses is that they will now start to feature higher in the rankings than there national competitors.

One other usage of the local search through the internet are people who are visiting the area such as holiday makers and business people who are unfamiliar with local trades and services. With Yahoo and MSN also looking to provide local searches on there US based sites it will be heading here soon.

A business does not need to have a web site these days to get listed in a Google local search. Most companies have a properly optimized site but should still be aware that these services exist.

It would seem that the local search is taking over from word of mouth recommendation. This is a particular area being developed on a new site that uses personal recommendation as it’s base for listing a new business weknowagreat.com