Yahoo Local Delivers Info Important to Users

Erin Blank | 25 April 2006 |

Yahoo set up its Local Sponsored Search in order to allow advertisers with localized service areas to target customers who prefer to do their research online, but make purchases within a local area. This search option is also great for travelers who have cell phones with Internet access who may be looking for somewhere to grab dinner or spend the night.

Users can find targeted information by searching in a specific location and/or category. They can also find reviews and recommendations on local businesses from others, adding a more personable touch to the search process.

Search results are displayed both on a map, where a user can pinpoint the exact location of the business(es) he or she is searching for, and in a list with a description and user reviews. Users’ favorite restaurants and attractions are also provided. The order of the displayed search results is determined by bid, then proximity to the searcher’s location, followed by the advertiser’s seniority with Yahoo Local.

Yahoo saves users’ recent local searches, so that they can be referred to at a later date. Based on these saved searches, Yahoo will offer suggestions about local businesses that are similar to previous searches, such as suggested restaurants or hotels.

Erin Blank - Blizzard Internet Marketing, Inc.