Many businesses are still unsure how to promote themselves online effectively, however, with Google working its way into our everyday lives, one of the most simple and effective (and FREE!) things you can do is submit your business to Google Local.

Google local is an online business directory, similar to the yellow pages. Posting to Google local submits your business to various Google applications, including

• Google Search
• Google Maps
• Google Places (Mobile Application)

You can add your products, services, business opening hours, car park availability and post coupons for potential clients to print out. Here is an example of a business listing that has been uploaded to Google Local.

 
The signup process is very quick and intuitive, and only takes 5 minutes to complete the form and be completely authorised.

With the increased popularity of mobile web browsing, registering with Google Local is an effective way to make your business visible to a wider audience.