Google “Plus Box” Puts Maps In Search Results

Google’s officially gained a new “plus box” feature that lets you see maps for local businesses right within the search results pages.

New Google UI feature: Plus Box from Matt Cutts gives more details on how it works and how local webmaster can make it happen for their listings.

Depending on the search query and your location, you may see a little plus sign and address information under a search result. When clicked, it opens up more details from Google Maps. The details include business information, a map, the address, driving directions and a phone number.

The feature was first spotted on Threadwatch last month. When I came across it, I found it very helpful.

So as a webmaster, how do you increase the chances your site shows this plus sign? Matt Cutts explains you need a local listing in Google. Here are help documents with more information about that:

• Sometimes an address appears below some search results. Why?
• What browsers does the Plus Box support?
• My business address and phone number are incorrect or missing in the Google search results Plus Box. How can I change this?