Google recently replaced Google Places with Google+ Local. Local businesses should become familiar with the new service and learn how to use it. Google+ Local can be found on “Local” tab in the sidebar of Google+ (on the left hand side). Now it provides Zagat scores and recommendations from those who are connected to Google+, replacing the former 5-Star rating system. Users can search the site or browse through categories that include listings such as restaurants, clothing stores and many others. Once you click on a listing, Google takes you to Google+ Local page of that business and the information such as location map, photos, reviews, Zagat score and others. The new service is integrated with other Google services such as Google Maps and Search.
Zagat scores are based on a 30-point scale, an average of reviewer scores, 0 – 10 being poor to fair and 26 – 30 being extraordinary to perfection. An individual score for décor, food and service can also be obtained. Individual score is based on a 0 -3 scale, 0 being poor to fair and 3 being excellent. The service is also connected to Google+ Circles and therefore, you may see your friend’s review of the business you searched. Google also has a video giving more information about the feature.