In the fast-growing world of digital marketing, it is important to have a robust online presence. Google’s dominance as a search engine is absolutely undeniable. However, Bing Places has been quietly gaining traction. And it’s proving to be a valuable asset for any business seeking visibility.
In this simple guide, we’ll discuss how to create a new account and the advantages of placing your business listing on Bing.
At this time, we will focus on home service companies. From understanding a Bing listing to learning how to set up and optimize it, we’ll cover all the essential points.
What is Bing Places?
BING for Business is Microsoft’s answer to helping businesses manage their online presence effectively. The platform allows business owners to list their companies, providing essential information to guide potential customers to them.
It is similar to Google My Business because it ensures that when users search for relevant services, your listing will appear in the results. In addition, your business will appear on Bing Maps and other Microsoft services.
How It Works
Creating a listing on Bing is a straightforward process. First, you create an account or sign in with your Microsoft account if you’re already a user. Once logged in, you simply add your business by listing all the relevant information.
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Make sure that you list all crucial details. These include business name, address, phone number, email address, website URL, and operating hours. It’s also important to include a brief description of your services. It’s that simple.
Benefits of Bing Places for Home Service Companies
1. Enhanced Business Details:
Bing enables you to provide comprehensive information about your business. This ensures that potential customers have access to all the necessary details they could possibly need. This transparency creates trust and increases the inquiries or conversion rate.
2. Local Search Visibility:
Bing integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Maps. Creating a Bing listing significantly boosts your visibility in all local searches. As users search for home services in your area, your business is marked on the map. It ensures potential customers can easily find you.
3. Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem:
If you’re already a Microsoft services user, for example, Outlook or OneDrive, having a Bing listing becomes even more advantageous. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft’s ecosystem. Once you list your business, it makes management smoother for those familiar with Microsoft’s range of products.
4. Optimized Search Results:
When creating your listing, you optimize it with relevant keywords. The process will ensure that your business is far more likely to appear as users look for the services you offer in Bing. This increases exposure to potential customers who are actively seeking the services you provide.
5. Customer Reviews:
Bing Places has a feature that allows customers to leave reviews of their experiences with your business. Positive reviews act as powerful testimonials and influence potential customers’ decisions. Businesses with consistently high standards will garner them. Showcasing such reviews will set your business apart.
Setting Up Your Bing Local Listing
You must follow a few key steps to get your business listing with Bing. Once you are an existing user, visit the Bing Places website and sign in with your Microsoft account. You simply add your company from here, providing all relevant information accurately.
This will include your business name, location, phone, email addresses, website, etc. Finally, claim your listing and verify your account. Verification is by receiving a PIN at your business address, phone, or email. All businesses must provide a valid address.
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Optimizing An Existing Account
If you already have a Bing listing but haven’t seen the results you would hope for, it’s time to optimize your account. First, review and, if necessary, update your details. Always ensure that all information is accurate and consistent across all platforms. You also want to try your best to fill out every possible field. This is one of easiest ways to know if your account is optimized.
Next, remember to incorporate relevant keywords, but do so naturally into your description. Keywords will improve your internet visibility. Finally, add interesting, good-resolution images of your work or products. Pictures always enhance a listing’s appeal.
Earning Reviews
Good customer reviews play a vital role in establishing the trust and credibility of any business. Always encourage your satisfied customers to place a review on your listing. In addition, respond to all reviews, positive or negative. Replying to comments demonstrates your openness to feedback. It also shows that you are committed to improving your customers’ experience.
Google My Business vs. Bing Places
Given Google’s dominance, comparing Bing Places with Google My Business is inevitable. Both platforms offer similar functionalities. However, a Bing listing provides a unique business advantage, especially for those in less competitive niches. Bing’s integration with Windows devices and its partnerships with AOL and Yahoo extend your company’s reach to different user bases.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that in today’s business world, search engines are reigning supreme. The ease with which someone can look at their phone and find what they are looking for is compelling. Not utilizing the power of Bing Places for business means you are missing out on a huge opportunity to expand your reach and manage your business better.
In the field of home service companies, a Bing search listing provides a tailored platform that showcases all the details of your business. It will enhance local search visibility, optimize all search results, and earn essential customer reviews. Bing is a powerful tool integrating seamlessly with Microsoft’s ecosystem and providing a complete solution to managing your online presence.
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