Posted by Shivali Anand
February 25, 2022 | 5-minute read (963 words)
Google My Business is often the first place prospective clients will visit online to find up-to-date information about your business, which make it an essential part of your firm’s online presence. This is especially true during the pandemic, as many people automatically search online before reaching out or visiting in person.
It's important to complete and periodically review your Google My Business profile to keep from losing prospective consumers. Keep in mind that your Google My Business page can increase your company's local SEO rating, all on its own.
The basics
The GMB profile is a free service provided by Google. It allows you to choose how your business information appears to individuals who find you on Google Search and Maps. Your company's name, address and hours of operation are all included in the basic profile. However, you may add photographs and special offers to the listing, as well as monitor and respond to consumer evaluations.
It is in your company's best interest to provide all relevant information on its Google My Business page. After all, you want people making Google searches to see updated, accurate information on your business rather than outdated misinformation that deters them.
How to strengthen your Google My Business profile
Take the time to ensure that your Google My Business page is well-curated by following these steps:
1. Complete your profile to the best of your ability.
Provide Google with as much information as possible about your company. This will make it simpler for Google to match your business to users' searches, rendering a higher search ranking.
Google advises that: "Local results favor the most relevant results for each search, and businesses with complete and accurate information are easier to match with the right searches.”
That means you should take the time to fill in your address, category, company hours, contact information and any other important business information you think users need.
When completing your GMB profile, try to be as detailed as possible. For example, if you own a nail art salon, avoid using "cosmetology" as a business category.
2. Make use of appropriate keywords.
Incorporate relevant keywords within your GMB profile to increase SEO. This will help Google understand what you're attempting to rank for.
Place relevant keywords in your company description as well as reactions to reviews, answers to queries and blog entries.
Avoid keyword “stuffing.” As with any other SEO approach, it’s best practice to organically incorporate keywords.
3. Use photographs to stand out.
Don’t over-rely on text for your profile. Adding photographs is a great way to quickly show people what your company is all about. Businesses with photos in their Google My Business profiles get 42% more requests for directions on Google Maps and 35% more visits to their websites.
Show off what you do, your location, goods or artistry by incorporating photos, in addition to displaying your company's logo and cover photo. Post images of your food, menus and dining room if you manage a restaurant, for example.
4. Post information, such as news, updates and special offers.
Alert customers of new products or services, special discounts and forthcoming events by posting them to your GMB profile. This not only keeps your profile up to date, but it also encourages people to visit your physical or online shop.
If your company has rich media, make use of it in your Google My Business profile. Listings that feature photographs, videos or GIFs generate higher engagement, according to Google.
Remember to notify customers of any changes to your GMB profile, such as a change in address, operation hours or phone number.
5. Encourage and promote reviews.
Today's tech-savvy buyers rely heavily on internet reviews to make purchasing decisions. Other people's internet reviews are trusted to nearly the same degree as a personal suggestion.
A positive review could be the distinguishing element that convinces potential consumers to choose your business. Positive reviews also help you rank higher in Google searches.
Encourage consumers to submit reviews on your GMB listing as often as possible, especially after giving them a positive experience.
6. Build trust by responding to reviews.
According to a Google survey, businesses that reply to consumer evaluations are deemed 1.7 times more trustworthy than those who don't. Responding to customer feedback regularly can help you gain confidence and loyalty.
Always reply in your brand voice, and be courteous and professional when responding to good and negative reviews alike.
Don't make the mistake of dismissing unfavorable feedback. Instead, be a good listener, apologize when necessary and address the concerns presented in your respectful response.
Finally, be sure to respond to any queries that have been posted on your GMB page as soon as possible. Use it as a chance to demonstrate that your company is proactive and trustworthy.
7. Use data to fine-tune paid and organic reach.
Your GMB page allows you to apprehend how customers find your company and how they remain connected. These insights can go deeper than what Google analytics can supply.
Use GMB insights to see how many people look up your company, phone it, ask for directions, look at your images and so on. Keep track of which keywords, posts and photographs have gotten the most attention. Make use of the data to boost engagement.
8. Include unique characteristics and qualities.
Depending on the business category you choose, GMB may provide special features. The following is a list of GMB's category-specific features:
• Product-based businesses can show product catalogs.
• Hotels can add star ratings and amenities.
• Restaurants and bars can post menus or highlight popular items on their websites. They can include a link for online bookings and orders.
• Service-oriented enterprises can show menus and a booking button.
• Stores can indicate features such as wheelchair accessibility.
