Yelp Sign

Yelp’s sign in their employee lounge

What’s the first stage of social media?

Listen

Where should you be listening?

Likely, Yelp.

Social Jumpstart had the chance to visit the Yelp Headquarters recently and meet with a number executives and product leads from this leading review site. Yelp is arguably one of the most critical social sites for many small business outlets. Our visit inspired us to share some tips about Yelp that are likely important to your business.

A Few Quick Yelp Tips:

–       40% of searches – and growing – are on mobile devices. So just like giving a check to your Google Places and Google Plus profile it’s essential to do the same with Yelp.

–       Take the time to dig into the details with a Yelp Check List that covers every element of your businesses key customer information.

–       Add a great photo that does your business proud. Photos are essential and a quality photo that really shows off your product or service is essential for Yelp.

–       Claim your business and Spend some time with Yelp Metrics and learn more about how your business compares and ranks for searches and track other user engagement points.

There are a number of social media outlets for businesses but, for  retailers and especially restaurants, among the most important is Yelp. We’ve pointed out that Yelp ROI has been measured so understanding and participating on Yelp is essential. Unlike other social sites, including Facebook, depending on the nature of your business Yelp may be the most important social site for you to be active on every single day. And when you are active with Yelp you will be rewarded with “Your Excellent Listening Payoff “ too.