Claim your search engine listings. Google, Yahoo, and other search engines allow business owners to claim their listings. This allows you to make sure your website address is listed and control the way the search engines index your business. You can use www.getlisted.org to see how your business has been indexed by the top search engines and find out which listings you haven’t yet claimed.

Submit your website to business directories. There are many business directories on the Internet besides those operated by the major search engines. Major national business directories include InfoUSA and YP.com; you can check out GetListed’s Resource Center or do an Internet search to find a number of other good directory options. Many directories will list your business and website information for free. Also look for local and industry business directories that might more directly target your audience, such as the local chamber of commerce or your trade association.

Make your website address part of your signature. Whenever you sign your name on the Internet, also include the address of your small business website. Many places offer the option to create a custom signature–from member-based websites to your own email–and you should always include your website address.

Comment in online forums. As a business owner, it’s always a good idea for you to stay active in your industry’s online conversations. Find online forums that are relevant to your business and take part in the discussions, making sure to leave your calling card—your website address—behind.

Build social networking profiles. Social networking websites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn all have places for you to enter your business website. Link your profiles to your website, your website to your profiles, and even your profiles to each other.

Try article marketing. Write about topics relevant to your website and publish them on the Internet, with a link back to your website in the “about the author” section. Learn more about how to promote your website with article marketing and consider giving it a try.

Now you can see how your business is listed in popular search engines all from one place. Take a look at www.getlisted.org and make sure you take the time to add your business information to at least the free listing services.

Adding your business to local listings increases chances for people who are looking for your products and/or services in your area to find you faster.

All of these are free, but have an option if you want to upgrade to a paying account.

• Google Maps
• Yahoo! Business Listing
• Merchant Circle
• SuperPages.com
• YellowPages.com