Did you know that there are more than 320 million Google users from across the globe? Did you know that about 91% of users usually take action (e.g., call, visit, or purchase) after searching for a local business on Google? Local businesses have become quite essential these days if you have not yet realized it. If you own a business and want to stay ahead of your competitors, it is time to get acquainted with Google My Business (GMB).
It is one of the best ways to help Google users find your business. Once you set up your profile on GMB, it will appear in local searches and drive more potential customers straight to your door. In this blog post, we will let you know everything about Google My Business so that you can start using it to boost visibility and thrive in this competitive world.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a free and easy-to-use platform that helps you manage your online presence and connect with customers. It allows you to create a unique page for your business that appears in Google Search, Maps, and Google Assistant. You can use the page to provide hours of operation, a description of your products or services, and a link to your website.
Google My Business is simple to sign up for and has many great features. The page lets you respond to customer reviews, manage your Google AdWords campaigns, and view statistics on how customers find you. Once set up, Google can help you attract new customers, respond to reviews, improve your SEO, and more. It’s also a great way to stay on top of important Google updates, so you can keep improving your online presence. It’s easy to sign up for Google My Business, and the benefits are well worth the effort.
Why Should You Use Google My Business?
If you own a small business, you might wonder why you should use Google My Business. Here are a few reasons that might help you decide:
Build your Brand: Google My Business enables you to strengthen your brand with features like Google Maps, your verified address, and hours of operation. You can also add a logo and links to your website, social media, and other important information. Your customers will see your information and build trust in your brand.
Drive More Traffic: When you use Google My Business, you’ll appear in Google Search and Maps. This can drive more traffic to your business and let you convert more of those customers with an excellent experience.
Improve your SEO: With Google My Business, you can publish more content, which will help you with your SEO strategy. This can help you rank on Google and drive organic traffic to your website. You’ll also be able to respond to reviews, which will help you build brand authority.
How to Setup Google My Business?
If you are convinced that Google My Business is the best way to market your business, you should set up your Google My Business account, so you can start reaping its benefits.
Step #1: Go to Google My Business and click the Sign-Up button. You can also go there through Google Search.
Step #2: Once you land on Google My Business, you should click the Sign-Up button. You will then be asked to enter your business information like name, address, and phone number.
Step #3: Next, you need to choose your industry and add a business description.
Step #4: After that, you should agree to the terms and conditions of the platform and click the Get Started button.
Pros of Using Google My Business
Easy-to-Edit Information: If you set up your profile correctly, Google My Business can be a very easy-to-use platform. You can easily change your address, hours of operation, brand information, and other essential details. Here are a few benefits of creating a Google My Business account:
Show up for Searches: Once you’re signed up, Google My Business will ensure that your business shows up in Google searches, Maps, and Google Assistant. This can help you bring in more customers and increase your profits.
Respond to Reviews: You can also reply to customer reviews on Google My Business. This can help you improve your brand authority and build trust in your business among customers.
Google Maps Integration: Google My Business also integrates with Google Maps, which lets you add tons of rich content. This can also help you get more reviews.
Gain insights into your work: Making strategic decisions can be aided by using Google Business Profile to acquire information regarding your company that is impossible through other platforms.
Cons of Using Google My Business
Although Google My Business has a lot of benefits, it also has some disadvantages:
You need to maintain your page regularly: When you use Google My Business, you must keep your page updated with fresh content. This is important to keep your presence on the platform and avoid getting demoted. Failure to do so may even lead to the delisting of your page.
You need to maintain your website: You also need to keep your website updated with fresh and relevant content. This is important because when people click through from Google Search or Maps and head over to your website, they need to find valuable and relevant information. If they don’t, they will leave your website. This platform is only for businesses, not individuals.
Google My Business is not for those looking for a quick fix. It’s only for those looking to increase their online presence, not those who want to maintain privacy. It is a long-term strategy that needs to be maintained regularly. You can’t just create the profile and forget about it; you must keep updating it regularly. If all you’re doing is creating a Google My Business profile, it will do you no good. You must ensure that you’re regularly adding fresh, new content.
How to verify your GMB account?
Many ways can verify a GMB account. A few common ones are listed below:
- Via Email:
Some businesses can use Google to call and confirm their location. When you begin the verification procedure, the “Verify by email” option will be available if you are qualified.
The first step is to sign in to Google My Business if you haven’t previously done so and select the company you want to verify. Double-check your email address, then select “Verify by email.” Open the email from Google My Business in your inbox, and click the email’s verification button. You will be at the verification stage if you are already logged in.
- Via Phone:
Some businesses can use Google to call and confirm their location. When you begin the verification procedure, you will see the “Verify by phone” option if you are qualified. The first step is to sign in to Google My Business if you haven’t previously done so and select the company you want to verify. You will be at the verification stage if you are already logged in. Double-check your phone number, then select “Verify by phone.” Step three is to enter the verification code sent to you through text.
- Instant Verification:
You might be able to rapidly validate your email if you’ve already confirmed your business with Google Search Console, a free tool that allows you to track the search performance and health of your website. (Some company categories aren’t eligible for fast verification, so you’ll need to use a different verification method if you don’t receive a notification requesting you to validate the listing.) Use the same account you used to validate your business with Google Search Console to sign into Google My Business.
Final Words: Should You Use Google My Business?
Online marketing for small businesses is the key to generating more leads, improving sales, and increasing your company’s profitability. When done correctly, online marketing will increase your brand awareness and generate more traffic to your website. It will also help you convert those visitors into leads. Online marketing is about getting your products and services in front of as many people as possible.
If you own a small business and want to get noticed online, Google My Business is a great way to start. It lets you create a rich profile that shows up in local searches and drives more potential customers straight to your door. To reap the benefits of this platform, make sure that you sign up for Google My Business. If you have decided to sign up for Google My Business, make sure that you use it correctly to get the most out of the platform. Also, make sure that you maintain your website and keep it up-to-date with fresh and relevant content regularly. Follow AdMedia.com for more information on eCommerce and advertising.