Video: How to Claim Your Listing on Hamden Patch

When Patch launched in Hamden, editors and contributors ventured to local businesses to collect information for our directory. The result was Patch Places.

Patch Places is the spot to find descriptions, hours, accepted payment methods and more for spots around town. You can even see what your neighbors think of a business before you try it or write your own review.

Every local business has a space on Patch. We've already done the legwork to create it for you. If you haven't seen it, we'd be happy to show it to you. If you claim it, you have more control over how your business is presented online.

For many small businesses, a Patch directory listing is their only web presence—and you can enhance it in many ways.

Do you have a Facebook page, a Twitter account or a Foursquare mayorship? If not, we can show you how to create them. If you do, we can link to them through your business listing.

Your listing gives your business a voice on Patch. And, if you're an active user, your friends, neighbors and potential new customers get a better sense of who you are, what your business offers and what your community means to you.

As our readers and your customers see your business name interacting on the site, you build credibility, establish a personality behind the brand and make an impression in your customers' minds. You can also link to your listing from your social media accounts. If you don't have them, we can show you how to build a better brand online.

By claiming your listing, you will find more value in your space on Patch. It's a place to interact with your community and connect with them outside of the store or restaurant.

Here are the steps to claim your listing. (You can also watch the video posted with this story).

1. Visit Hamden Patch. If you're already a user, make sure you log in first.
2. Click on the "Directory" tab at the top of the page.
3. Search for your business/organization and click on it.
4. Scroll half down the page to where it says, "Do you own or manage this location? Claim it!" Click on "Claim It."
5. Login and complete the four-question form providing all necessary information to expedite your claim.
6. We take claiming very seriously, so please allow 3-5 business days for us to evaluate and approve your claim. You will be notified via email once it is approved.

Need help or want some more information? Contact me at kathleen.ramunni@patch.com