In today’s digital world, having an online presence is critical for businesses of all sizes. Google My Business (GMB), now part of Google Business Profile, is a powerful tool that helps your business show up in local searches and on Google Maps. Optimizing your profile can significantly improve your visibility and attract more local customers.
If you’re ready to make the most of your GMB profile, here are simple, actionable steps to get started.
1. Claim and Verify Your Business Profile
Start by going to Google and searching for your business. If you see it come up, you should click “Claim this business.” If not, then create anew profile on Google My Business.
When your business is claimed, you’ll need to verify it with Google. Typically, this means that Google will mail a postcard to your business. It will contain a code that you use to confirm ownership. There are also options for phone, email and instant verification in some cases.
2. Complete and Accurate Information
Detailed profiles are what Google really likes. The more detailed your profile, the higher it will rank in search results. to make sure that your profile is high-ranking, review and answer every one of the following fields correctly:
- Business Name: Use your official name without adding excess keywords or you might be violating the rules.
- Address and Service Area: Make sure that your address is correct. And if you provide services to people in specific areas, indicate that.
- Phone Number and Website: Include your primary business phone number and website link.
- Hours of Operation: Make sure your hours are right, and update them for special events or holidays.
- Categories: Choose the most relevant categories for your business. For example, if you run a bakery, select “Bakery” as your primary category and additional ones like “Catering.”
A complete profile makes it easier for customers to find accurate information about your business, and it also boosts your local ranking.
3. Add High-Quality Photos and Videos
Photos and videos are an essential part of your Google Business Profile. They help potential customers get a sense of what your business offers. Businesses with photos are more likely to attract clicks and visits.
Here’s how to make your visuals work for you:
- Upload Images of Your Products or Services: For example, a restaurant could add pictures of its menu items, while a salon could showcase hairstyles or treatments.
- Add Team Photos: Showing your team at work adds a human touch to your profile.
- Post Videos: Short videos of your workspace, customer testimonials, or behind-the-scenes moments make your profile more engaging.
- Keep It Fresh: Regularly update your visuals to reflect changes in your business, such as new products or renovations.
4. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews are critical for building trust and attracting new customers. Businesses with higher ratings and positive reviews often rank better in local search results.
- Ask for Reviews: After a successful transaction, ask customers to leave a review. Make it easy by providing a direct link to your GMB review page.
- Respond to Reviews: Always respond to reviews, whether positive or negative. A simple “Thank you for your feedback!” shows you care. For negative reviews, address the issue professionally and offer to resolve it.
- Avoid Fake Reviews: Don’t buy or post fake reviews, as Google can penalize your business if discovered.
5. Use Posts to Share Updates
Google allows you to create posts to keep your audience informed. These posts appear on your business profile and can highlight promotions, new products, events, or announcements.
- Write Clear and Engaging Content: Keep posts short and direct, focusing on how your updates benefit customers.
- Include a Call-to-Action (CTA): Encourage users to “Call Now,” “Book Online,” or “Learn More.”
- Use Eye-Catching Images: Posts with high-quality visuals grab more attention.
6. Optimize for Local Keywords
Local SEO is all about targeting customers near your business. Including relevant keywords in your GMB profile can help you appear in local searches.
- Use Keywords in Descriptions: Add location-specific terms naturally in your business description. For example, “Affordable plumbing services in Denver.”
- Incorporate Keywords in Reviews: While you can’t control customer reviews, encourage satisfied customers to mention specific products or services they used.
- Leverage FAQ Sections: If your profile has a Questions and Answers section, add commonly asked questions that include local keywords.
7. Monitoring Insights
Google gives you useful data on how people actually use your GMB profile through the Insights section. These specific metrics indicate the main ways people find and interact with your listing.
- Follow Search Queries: Tell exactly where your customers are finding you with handy indicators!
- Monitor Inquiries and Navigate Requests: You’ll know how many people are contacting you or asking for directions.
- Study Post Performance: See which posts pull the most views and interaction worst.
This data can be used to recalibrate your efforts and focus on what’s driving results.
8. Enable Messaging
Google’s messaging feature lets customers contact you directly through your profile. This can be a convenient way to answer questions and convert leads.
- Turn on Messaging: Enable this feature in your Google Business dashboard.
- Respond Quickly: Customers expect fast responses, so monitor messages and reply promptly.
- Set Up Automatic Replies: Use an initial message to acknowledge customer inquiries, like “Thanks for reaching out! We’ll get back to you shortly.”
9. Keep Your Profile Updated
An outdated profile can frustrate customers and hurt your credibility. Regularly review and update your GMB details, including hours, services, and photos.
Additionally, stay on top of Google updates or features that could benefit your business.
Why Google My Business Matters
Optimizing your GMB profile is one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase your business’s visibility. Whether you run a small local shop or a large company, GMB helps you connect with customers searching for businesses like yours.
At ImpactInteractive, we specialize in helping businesses enhance their online presence. Contact us today to learn how we can take your digital strategy to the next level!