Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful tool that can help small businesses boost their visibility and attract more customers. By creating a listing and verifying your business on GMB, you can improve your chances of showing up in local search results and on Google Maps.
Here are the 10 best ways to maximize your GMB listing:
Verify Your Listing: The process of verifying a Google Business Profile (GBP) involves confirming the authenticity of a business's information on the platform. Google offers several verification methods, and the specific method required for a business will be determined by the platform. As a business owner, it is important to comply with the verification method chosen by Google. However, if the chosen method is not feasible, the business can reach out to the Google Business Profile Support team to explore alternative options. For example, if the business only has a landline and is required to verify via text. Additionally, the verification process may include a video verification step.
Optimize Your Profile: Make sure your GMB profile is complete and up-to-date. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website, and hours of operation. You should also include a detailed description of your business, photos, and videos to give customers a better idea of what your business is about.
Encourage Reviews: Positive reviews can help to boost your visibility and attract more customers. Encourage all satisfied customers to leave you a review on your GMB listing. Respond to both positive and negative reviews and strive to resolve any issues that are raised.
Add Photos and Videos: Photos and videos can help to give customers a better idea of what your business is about. Make sure to add high-quality, relevant photos and videos to your GMB listing.
Use Google Posts: Google Posts allow you to share updates, promotions, and events with customers directly from your GMB listing. Use this feature to share important information about your business, such as new products or services, special offers, and upcoming events.
Utilize the Insights feature: Insights feature allows you to track important metrics such as website traffic, phone calls, and direction requests. Use this feature to track your progress and make data-driven decisions about your marketing and advertising strategy.
Add Services: If your business provides services, make sure to add them to your GMB listing. This will help customers find the services they're looking for, and will help you show up in search results for specific services.
Add Products: If you sell products, make sure to add them to your GMB listing. This will help customers find the products they're looking for and will help you show up in search results for specific products.
Utilize Messaging: GMB allows customers to message you directly from your listing. Make sure to respond promptly to any messages you receive to ensure that customers are getting the help they need.
Use Google My Business API: If you have a website or an app, you can use Google My Business API to programmatically update and manage your GMB listings. This allows you to make updates to your listing in real-time and keep your listing up to date with the latest information.
In conclusion, Google My Business is a powerful tool that small businesses can use to boost their visibility and attract more customers. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of showing up in local search results, build a strong online presence, and track important metrics that can inform your marketing and advertising strategy.