Phone Numbers in Local Campaigns

[waynekolenchuk]

Hi Mozzers,

I have a both an 800 number and a local number for a local business client, with both featured on the site. Which number should I feature on the Google places, Google+ and local citations — the local number, the 800 number, or both?

Any help appreciated.

[MiriamEllis]

Hi Wayne,

Your local area code phone number is the 'P' in your core business NAP (name, address, phone). Listing it consistently as your primary phone number is crucial to you sending a clear signal. Glad you asked, as this is very important!

[Laurean]

I always list the local area code number for my clients in all their directory listings.  An 800 number sounds too fishy for the local listings, but would be "ok" on the website.

With long distance being so cheap - virtually free - these days, I'm finding fewer and fewer positives to using a 1-800 number - except for my national clients.  But even then, it's amazing how many people prefer to call the local number.

Good question.

[RepLoc_Tim]

Definitely use the local number on your main number in Google+ Local/ Places - Google guidelines.  You should also use this in your NAP schema on your page.  You can list the 800 as the alternative number if you choose, but not sure it adds value to local searchers especially in the maps.

[Atomicx]

Using a local number on the places profile will help improve its local rankings.