Google recently launched a new feature to the Google Local Map listing that they have coined TAGS - At first the name did not make sense, because the first thing that popped into my head was blog tags.

But Once I saw the Google tags in action it clicked (pun intended)

If you look at the snapshot of Google Tags to the right you will notice the little yellow tag with scissors on the map and in the listing next to the maps you also see a little yellow tag. This little yellow tag can be added to your map listing for $25 per month.

The key to using tags is to have something in your map listing you want to promote. (and to have your map verified with Google)

Google writes very clearly that buying a tag to promote your listing will not help you get more impression, but they do lead you to believe that you will get more clicks when your listing is shown.

We are currently testing tags with two clients to determine if click through or other actions increase as a result of using Google Tags. (We hope they it works to drive more traffic, every little tool helps)

SEOTA helps our clients dominate search results including local map listings. If you are having trouble getting traction with Google we can help.

So many people are confused about the proper way to use social media. They get conflicting advice from people they know and from so called experts.

Fact, a Facebook page about/for your business may be of no use.  In example, I just spoke with an acquaintance about his independent insurance business. People have been telling him he needs a Facebook page for his business. (Hounding him, is the phrase he used) But honestly, how many of you are going to “like” an insurance page. (There are some ways to pull this off, but well beyond the scope of a lot of people) –

The real answer for your average independent insurance agent is to create a personal page and use that page to expand his influence and network and occasionally to share a post about insurance.

A great example, say you are an independent agent and you have networked and gathered a 1,000 friends on your personal Facebook page. One day you post something like the following (if it is true) “I got an nice fruit basket today from Ted Smith as a thank you for saving him $300 on his car insurance. ” Do you think that post will get attention? You bet it will. If you are a good agent and you are saving people money and helping with claims I bet you could find lots of great things to post to you personal page.

So a fan page for you business may be a great idea for some businesses, but if you are in the touch business like insurance I would stick with the personal page.  Expand your personal network and influence and give yourself a plug once in awhile. I think that what you will find is that when you help someone they will be quick to give you plug on your personal page as well.

Have fun networking - Remember Social is the first word in Social Media.