Google My Business (recently changed to Google Business Profile) is a free tool provided by Google to help local businesses appear in Google Search and Maps. It should be the cornerstone to your local digital marketing if you are selling to local customers.
The three key ranking factors are:
Getting your business in the Local 3-Pack is the most important thing you can do to increase phone calls, leads and customers.
Google say 93% of search results show a Local 3-Pack. Over 40% of clicks are on a 3-Pack business.
Because the 3-Pack is at the top of the page and not a paid ad, it is noticed most by Google users.
Searchers trust Google 3-Pack listings more than organic and paid search results combined.
76% of people who conduct a local search contact a business within 24 hours.
Google realises how valuable this real estate is and are starting to rollout ads at the top and only show 2 businesses.
59% of consumers read reviews on Google My Business. Reviews are the new word of mouth and are a powerful conversion tool.
Your Google My Business listing is 100% free and there are many resources on line to help you optimise your listing. However, getting your business in the local 3-pack is not straight forward. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle with no picture, unless you know what you are doing. Below we have outlined what needs to be completed to fully optimise your listing.
Once optimised it is then important to add content to your Google My Business listing including:
It is very important that your Google My Business listing data is fully completed, including, your business information, business location, opening times, business categories (primary category is critical) and service areas.
Citations are principally online directories. They include national, local and industry specific directories.
Your business needs to be added to these with the same NAP (name, address, phone number) information.
Regular Google Posts are proven to increase map pack rankings, and they enable communication with leads.
Q&As are not really a ranking factor but add value to visitors to your GMB listing.
Although not proven to increase your positioning by regularly adding real photos and optimised videos to your GMB listing shows Google you are keen to show your business in the best light.
Online customer reviews gives potential new customers a valuable insight into your business as well as providing social proof to Google that your business is reputable and should be ranked highly.
It is critical to respond to each review, good or bad, as this will encourage others to post reviews as well as demonstrating your commitment to good service. And remember the reviewer will be notified that you have responded to their review.
Opposite are some of the more common questions we get asked about Google My Business. If your question is not answered please feel free to contact us.
Phone Number:
Email: support@gmbmanager.com
Google My Business is the platform that powers Google’s business listings.
By adding your business details will mean your business will get listed in the Google’s local pack, on Google Maps as well as in other different search results.
It is a platform that every local business owner should be aware of and using given that the information which you submit to your listing can appear in a number of different ways on the search engine giant.
Google enables local businesses to create a Business Profile for free. This listing then enables you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps.
Google My Business is a combination of your:
Most businesses verify ownership via phone, SMS or requesting and receiving a postcard to your address from Google.
Just recently Google have launched verification via uploading a video of your business signage.
Google My Business is often the first interactions potential customers have with your business.
You will need to enter your business address to get verified but you can then hide your address.
If you do not have an address where customers can visit, e.g. a home based virtual business you can register the area you service.