Expert Tips For Guide to Optimizing Google My Business

If you have a business website, why do you need to Google My Business?

Google My Business isn’t a replacement for your website. It’s a summary of your most relevant information so people can find out about you quickly and easily.

Your GMB information includes:

• Operating hours 
• Physical Address 
• Contact Information 
• Customer Reviews 
• Who you are

As a business, you also gain crucial information from GMB – like reviews, messages, customer photos, and insights into how customers interact with your business.

Getting Started with a Google My Business Listing

Do you have GMB? Quickly find out by Googling your business name. If no listing pops up or a listing pops up that isn’t claimed, then it’s time you set one up.

Over 56% of businesses never claimed their GMB account! Don’t miss out on potential customers, and claim your business today!

5 Tips for Optimizing Google My Business

If you already have a listing, log into your account and start Google My Business optimization using these five steps. 

1. Fill Out All Your Business Information Using SEO

GMB optimization begins with filling out your basic information on your Google business page. Carefully add as much information as possible – making sure it’s accurate and up to date. Compare the information with your website as inconsistencies negatively affect your search appearance.

Beyond your basic information, your Google My Business listing includes attributes, a description, and a business category. Fill out these portions according to how you want to be ranked in Google and what search terms you want your business to relate to.

Does your location have free Wifi? Is there onsite parking? Is your location wheelchair accessible? These attributes help your business show up when people search phrases like “Wheelchair-accessible restaurants near me” or “hair salon with wifi.”

Use SEO and keywords to get your Google listings ranked in the most relevant customer searches. Your keywords should include where you are, what you offer, and what makes you unique (your marketable quality). 

2. Keep your information Updated.

Your business listing isn’t a one-time deal. You should continually update it with the most accurate information.

New phone number? Update GMB. 

New address? Update GMB. 

New product? Update GMB. 

Changed holiday hours? Update GMB. 

You get the idea. Customers should know your Google local listing is reliable, or else it could negatively affect your business. 

3. Use Pictures

People like pictures. Use them! Over 60% of customers are MORE likely to visit your business if you have an image. Images show you are a real business with live people. This knowledge builds trust in customers and makes them more willing to do business with you.

There are several types of images you should choose carefully and have added to any GMB. 

• Logo: This image is your face and will show up the most in search results – choose it wisely! 
• Cover Photo: Summarize WHO you are using one photo to grab people’s attention. 
• Business Photos: Have fun with the pictures connected to your account. Show friendly interactions, quality products, and relevant images that boost your brand. 

4. Use GMB to Interact with Customers

In a world filled with robots and automated messaging, finding a human to interact within a business is rare. Build a personal relationship with your customers by giving them that human touch.

GMB offers several ways to interact with customers. First is their messaging app. You have contact forms, email, and phone numbers for customers to use. Also, allow people to directly message you through Google to show you are serious about hearing from them.

Don’t just offer that option, but also respond – even if that means adding in an immediate automated response. Then, have customer service answer personally later. That small gesture lets customers know you are listening.

Reviews are another way to reach out to customers. Over 93% of customers will look up reviews online before deciding on a product. What people say about your business matters!

Show you also care what people are saying by responding to each review using your GMB account. Thank the people who are giving you positive reviews using genuine language. If you can add personal details in your response to prove you’re human and not a robot, add them!

You will sometimes get negative reviews. If you don’t get any negative reviews, customers might start to wonder if you’re a legitimate business. Consider negative reviews as an opportunity to showcase another aspect of your business – customer satisfaction.

Apologize to the person who wasn’t happy, and make a public declaration of your desire to right the wrong. Even if that one customer never returns, other customers know that if they aren’t happy, you’re willing to work with them. 

5. Post events, products, and discounts

Use your business as your storefront window. Display highlights from your product lineup, discounts, and upcoming events.

The products and services listed on your page should represent the very best of your stock. Use catchy images and titles. Even if people aren’t interested in your highlighted products, the images can encourage customers to click on your website to see more.

Everyone likes freebies! Coupons and promotions are another way to encourage people to shop. When you walk into a store, how likely are you to walk straight to the bright red sign exclaiming “SALE!”? When people pull up your business, draw them in with sales and promotions.

Display your calendar of events for customers to see right there on Google. Plus, your event will add another element to rank in Google. If someone Googles “free events near me this weekend,” your event could rank and attract new customers. 

Make the Most of Your GMB Page

Optimizing your Google My Business listing isn’t an easy task. That’s why you can hire marketing experts to help with your SEO and rankings.

Agency Partner Interactive offers digital marketing services – including Google My Business optimization – through their team of experts that deliver value, accelerate revenue, and increase profits. Talk to a team member today and start getting the most out of your GMB listing.