When people search for your business on Google, it’s important to show up-to-date information and the details that make your business stand out. Luckily, Google has a free tool that makes it easier for you to update how your business appears to potential customers on Google Search and Maps – Google My Business.
In this post, we’ll share some information to help you understand what Google My Business is, why it’s important for your business, answer some frequently asked questions, and share three steps to get started with your listing.
The importance of Google My Business
We recommend that all of our web design clients make the most of their listing to complement the work we’re doing on their website.
Having an optimised Google My Business account means that when someone searches for your business on Google Search and Google Maps, they find it. It can help with your local SEO and allows you to share key information about your business to potential customers like where you are, what times you’re open, and what products or services you offer.
You will likely have seen lots of examples of Google My Business listings as you’ve browsed the internet over the years. They normally appear on the top right of Google after performing a local search or in Google Maps.
Here’s an example of our listing:
You can use your Google My Business account to share details such as:
- Contact information
- Link to your website
- Business logo
- Photos
- Opening hours
- Service area
- Special offers & new products
Your job isn’t done when your listing is set up though. Keep your information updated and accurate as your business evolves. There’s nothing worse than checking a restaurant’s opening times on Google before turning up and being faced with a locked door.
Keep a steady stream of reviews coming in and regularly upload photos and publish posts to show your business in the best light.
Google My Business FAQs
Q: Should I create a listing if I already have a website?
A: Yes, your free listing can add more visibility to your current business website on Google Search and Google Maps.
Q: My business doesn’t have a shopfront. Can I still have a listing?
Yes, you can as long as you make in-person contact with customers. For example, if you serve customers at your business address and deliver directly to customers, or if you’re a service-area business that visits customers directly like a plumber.
Q: How do I create an account?
A: Visit https://www.google.com/business/ to gain access. If you have an existing Google account you can use those same login details to access your profile. This is usually the same email address you use to access Google Analytics. Otherwise, create a free Google account to manage your profile.
Q: How do I manage my listing after I sign up?
A: You can manage your profile directly from Google Search or Maps by searching for ‘my business’ or entering your business name. Or you can sign in on the Google My Business website.
Q: How do I verify my business?
A: Most businesses verify ownership via phone, SMS or requesting and receiving a postcard to your postal address from Google.
Q: Is a listing free?
A: Yes, it’s completely free so there’s no excuse!
Your Google My Business Checklist
Reach more customers in three simple steps:
- Claim – Create a listing, or manage an existing profile on Search and Maps at https://www.google.com/business/.
- Personalise – Add hours, photos and other details and get discovered by customers near you.
- Manage – Share updates, respond to reviews and connect with customers on Google.
Get started with Google My Business today
Hopefully, this post has helped you to understand what Google My Business is and you can see that this free tool really is a must if you want to help your business stand out on Google particularly for local searches.
Follow the steps outlined above to get your Google My Business account up and running now so you can attract more customers on the world’s most popular search engine.
If you have any questions or want to discuss a web design project to make sure your online presence is the best it can be, please get in touch.