Local Search Roundup

Is paying for search engine advertising out of your price range? Most major search engines and their counterparts have free local listings sections.

When people search for an insurance agent in your area, your listing will pop up in the engine's local search results.

Your agency may already be listed in some local search engines. Always perform a search for your agency first so you know whether you need to edit an existing profile, or create a new one.

Some popular local search engines:

Google Maps
Use Google's Local Business center to add your agency to Google Maps. Not only can people find you on the map, but your contact info is displayed - including photos if you want to add them.

Yahoo Local
Sign up for a free Basic Listing which includes your agency name, address, phone number and a few extra details.

Ask City
Ask.com's local search places your agency on their searchable map feature.

Local.com
Start with a free listing that includes your agency's name, phone number, website address, and your own description.

TrueLocal.com
Enjoy a free basic listing and your agency will be listed in this search engine's organic results. Upgrade to a paid listing (starts at $5 a month) and appear near the top of the results for your zip code.

Citysearch
Citysearch feeds its listings to MSN and other big players. You may already be listed, but to edit a profile you'll need to open an account.

Yelp.com
This online city guide features business reviews submitted by real customers. Business owners can update their information and add photos.