Bing for Business: A Local SEO Guide to Bing Places

Yes, people still use Bing! 

While Google may be the search engine giant, Bing has a dedicated user base, making it a relevant platform for businesses.

As of 2023, it accounted for approximately 9.19% of the global search engine market share. If you're thinking, "Why bother with Bing?" – the answer lies in the potential for reaching a unique audience and enhancing your local SEO efforts. 

Let's explore Bing for Business and how optimizing your Bing Business Listing can be a smart move to boost your local online presence. Find out if Bing is still a player in the search engine game!

What Is Bing Places for Business?

Bing Places for Business is a free and user-friendly platform provided by Microsoft, allowing businesses to manage their online presence on Bing search and maps.

Like Google My Business, it enables businesses to create detailed listings that appear when users search for local products, services, or companies on the Bing search engine.

Key Features of Bing Places for Business:

1. Business Listings: Create and manage your business profile, providing essential information such as your name, address, phone number, website, and business hours.
2. Photos and Videos: Showcase your products, services, and the personality of your business by uploading high-quality images and videos.
3. Customer Reviews: Engage with your customers by responding to their reviews and feedback, which can help build trust and credibility.
4. Maps Integration: Ensure potential customers can easily find your physical location on Bing Maps.
5. SEO Insights: Gain insights into how users find and engage with your business listing.

Benefits of Using Bing Places for Local SEO

1. Improved Online Visibility: By creating a Bing Places for Business listing, your business can appear in Bing search results and Bing Maps, increasing your online visibility to potential customers who prefer Bing over Google.
2. Local Relevance: Bing Places is tailored for local search, making it an ideal platform for businesses that rely on local customers. It helps your business show up when local users search for related products or services.
3. Competitive Advantage: As Bing is often overlooked by businesses focusing solely on Google, optimizing your Bing listing can provide a competitive advantage, especially in less competitive markets.
4. Mobile-Friendly: Bing Places for Business listings are mobile-friendly, ensuring that users can easily access your business information on their smartphones, which is crucial in today's mobile-driven world.
5. Free Marketing: Perhaps the best part is that creating and managing a Bing Places for Business listing is free. It's a cost-effective way to boost your local online presence.

How to Create a Bing For Business Listing

Creating a Bing Places for Business listing is a straightforward process that can significantly benefit your local SEO efforts. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Visit Bing Places for Business

Open your web browser and go to the Bing Places for Business website.

Step 2: Sign In or Create a Microsoft Account

You'll need a Microsoft account to get started. If you don't have one, you can create it for free.

Step 3: Add Your Business

Click on the "Add your business to Bing" button.

Enter your business name and address, then click "Search." If your business appears in the search results, select it. If not, click "Create a new business."

If your business is already on Google, you can skip the line and add it directly. 

Step 4: Verify Your Business

To verify your business, Bing will mail you a verification code. This code typically arrives within a week.

Once you receive the code, log in to your Bing Places for Business account and enter the code to verify your business.

Step 5: Complete Your Business Profile

After verification, you can access your business dashboard. Here, you can provide detailed information about your business, including your website, phone number, hours of operation, and photos.

Step 6: Optimize Your Listing

• Add high-quality photos and videos that showcase your products or services.
• Encourage customers to leave reviews on Facebook, Yelp, or Trip Advisor and engage with them by responding promptly.
• Keep your business information up-to-date.

Optimize for Local SEO

Creating a Bing Places for Business listing is just the first step. To maximize your local SEO impact on Bing, consider these optimization tips:

1. Use Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords in your business description, but keep it natural and user-friendly.

2. Categories and Attributes

Choose appropriate categories and attributes that accurately describe your business.

3. NAP Consistency

Ensure that your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all online platforms.

4. High-Quality Visuals

Upload high-resolution images and videos to make your listing more appealing.

5. Regular Updates

Regularly update your business hours, services, and special offers or events.

6. Encourage Reviews

Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews for your business. Bing pulls reviews from popular sources like Yelp, Facebook, and TripAdvisor. 

Contact NewReputation

If you need assistance optimizing your Bing Places for Business listing or have other SEO-related questions, please don't hesitate to contact NewReputation. Our team of experts is here to help you improve your online visibility and reputation.

Bing Places for Business is a valuable tool for local businesses aiming to enhance their online presence and reach a broader audience. By creating and optimizing your Bing listing, you can harness the power of Bing's search engine and maps to attract more local customers and boost your SEO efforts.