The extensive online marketing toolbox has recently expanded with the advent of Google Places and Facebook Places.

Google’s system allows users to search local business data while Facebook’s gives members the ability to receive special “deals” and publicly “check-in” to a location, informing their friends via status updates.

These two applications, while similar, provide unique benefits to businesses, including a fantastic return on investment.

Connecting with Local Buyers

The Places programs both allow companies to inform local customers about their location, as well as their overall products or services. Google’s option is geared towards a search function, effectively replacing the need for massive tomes of yellow pages.

Companies can input vital contact data, custom descriptions and images. The built-in review system allows searchers to see reviews from several different websites or to add their own.

Facebook’s application is a network-based social feature that requires a significant amount of time to build sufficient buzz from customers to be cost-effective for businesses. Even so, it does allow businesses to list “deals” which users can claim by checking in at their location.

Cross-Platform Connections

Google offers the ability to move from Places to their online Maps feature, allowing users to see the routes and distances to listed Places. The search function also lists Places data on normal searches when the data is relevant.

Facebook integrates Places information with their status update system, giving users the ability to see where their friends are, effectively providing a recommendation.

International Connections

Businesses with international locations should take advantage of the 93 locations in which Google is available. At the moment, the Facebook application is only accessible in the US.

Location Verification

While both programs require location verification, many companies have found Google’s to be more streamlined. The Facebook system demands verification for each location, significantly increasing the time and resources required for setup. Nonetheless, these constraints protect users from spammers and unethical business practices.

The Google and Facebook applications offer significant benefits to businesses small and large. Google Places is a must-have for both large and small businesses. Facebook Places, while possibly representing a significant time investment, can offer a similar marketing opportunity.

Xcellimark can help you put your business on the map with Google Places and Facebook. Our team consists of Local Search and Social Media professionals that work together to create a listing that gives you prime exposure in the search engines and social networks. Contact Xcellimark to learn more.

Photos Courtesy of Google and Facebook