It used to be that if you wanted people to find your business, you needed to be listed in the yellowpages. The internet has quickly changed that. Google has become a verb. The term "Google it" now flies off of consumers tongues when it comes to searching for information on new products or services.

This couldn’t be better news than it is for small businesses. The days of paying thousands of dollars for display ads in the phone directory, are no longer necessary. In fact, a business can get more exposure on the internet now than ever before and many times it is completely free. Etegy.com has compiled a list of websites that offer free business listings.

1. Manta.com – A free on-line business directory on which you can list your business contact information, along with your logo and website link for free. They have also just added a new feature that allows you to create three free products and services pages. This allows added exposure and links back to your website which typically helps to boost your search engine ranking

2. Google Places – Google.com/places – According to Google, 97% of consumers search for local businesses online. Google places allows you to list your local business for free. The bonus to adding your business to this site is that the local Google search results show up at the top of the first page in Google search. This is definitely a listing that businesses can benefit from.

3. Yelp.com- Yet another social sharing site but worthy of getting listed on. It is free to list your business on it and again, it could help your search engine ranking.

4. Merchantcircle.com – Promoting local businesses, Merchantcircle offers free listings that include the ability to not only list your business contact information and website but to also upload photos, create blogs, newsletters and coupons.

5. Yellowpages.com – Another on-line directory that offers free listings. Just be prepared to get a phone call attempting to upgrade you to their premium listing. (which is not free)

This list is just a small sampling of what is available to small businesses. To cover all of the free advertising opportunities available, one could literally compile a book. It is recommended that business owners do a monthly internet search for their products or services and see what comes up. There are thousands of similar free listing sites that can boost your online exposure and possibly your website’s search engine ranking.