Local Search and Social Media Networks
A local search strategy should include more than just a presence at Google, Yahoo and Bing but include the latest trends in social media:
Blogs. Search engines love lots of words and frequent updates, which are the building blocks of blogs. An added benefit of a blog is the subscription feature, which feeds your content to interested readers whenever it's updated. Business blog customization when done correctly, converts a blog into a powerful link building tool.
Facebook. Search engines will pick up on a business's Facebook page. And having a Fan page helps you build a list of fans who like receiving your product and info updates. Facebook is great for targeting interested people through pay per click social media advertising.
YouTube. As the number-three website in the world behind Yahoo and Google, and now the number-two search engine behind Google, YouTube is the place to be. Try creating product- demonstration and how-to videos that could go viral.
Twitter. Follow influencers and build a community around your sites. Search your company and brand names at search.twitter.com, to address anything being said about you.
LinkedIn. At this business-friendly site, you can answer product and service questions and connect with professionals in your industry.
Location-based social sites. Places where consumers can log in and tell their friends their location and arrange meet-ups, like FourSquare and Gowalla,are opportunities for local retailers and restaurants. Source: New Times blog. Read the full post. 
