Local search queries are increasing at an accelerating rate. Your site can gain additional traffic and conversions by getting listed in Google Local, Yahoo Local, Citysearch and appropriate industry-specific directories.

Google Local: Get listed in Google Maps via Google's Local Business Center, where you can create a free listing with a Google account. First, check to see if you are listed, and if so, ensure your listing is accurate. If not, list your company name, address, phone/FAX, toll-free number, contact personnel, email address, website address and hours of operation. Follow Google's Business Listing Quality Guidelines and use Google's Reinclusion Request form if your listing gets pulled.

Yahoo Local: Get a free local listing in Yahoo Local Basic, which consists of a profile listing with your address, phone/FAX number, website and email addresses, business category, hours of operation, accepted payment methods and a description of your products and services. Add or update information any time. Adding your address and phone information in a footer on all your pages can get your inner pages listed.

Citysearch: This online city guide provides local information on restaurants, entertainment, retail, travel, and professional services in major cities in the U.S., including contact information, maps, driving directions, editorial and user reviews. You can get a free listing on Citysearch, but the "List Your Business" link only provides paid listings. To get a free listing, go to the "Enter Missing Listing Information" page and enter all the business information requested on the form. Note: this same form is used to make changes to existing listings. Search for your business first, check your profile page for accuracy and then either make changes or start from scratch when you fill out the form.

Niche search engines: It's important to get a free listing in all the directories relevant to your business. Some directories are free and others are worth the listing fee. Look for appropriate directories for your business in DMOZ and the Yahoo Directory by typing "directories" into the search box or by using your industry's keyword (e.g., "pharmaceutical directories."). Google also has an industry-specific directory, and you can find a list of industry-specific directories at NYPL.org. Once you've gathered a list of directories for submission, read each submission guide carefully and provide requested information accurately. Directories are a good source of traffic and help increase link popularity.