The first thing most people do when searching for something is to Google it.
This makes it very important for your business to be found in the top search results. You can get your own business listed on Google easily and quickly by using Google Business Profile. This significantly helps your google search results, especially for your local area.
What is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) was created to help give businesses a public identity and presence online, allowing them to appear on Google Search, Maps, and Google+.
You can list your own business details on Google no matter what type of business you have. Google Business Profile provides you with tools to:
Update your listing – You can include a variety of information about your business including you location, opening hours, contact numbers, instant messaging, among others.
Post updates and offers – This allows you to go beyond your current followers or clients and help bring in more business.
Gather insights – You can learn how people found you, where they come from, or how they are interacting with your business listing.
What are the benefits to having a Google Business Profile account?
Google Business Profile can benefit your business in the following ways:
Connects you directly with customers – It doesn’t matter whether people are looking for you through Search, Maps or Google+. Google Business Profile will make it easier for them to find information about your business online, across multiple devices. They will easily be able to call or message you.
A great place for reviews – Google reviews play an important role in showing that your business is trustworthy, both in the eyes of Google and your consumers. Many potential customers will choose whether or not to hire you after reading reputable reviews online. Google is more likely to notice businesses with higher reviews, both in terms of volume, quality, and diversity.
Improves your SEO – Google’s algorithm allows it to crawl the internet for updated information about your business. This means that the more places your business is listed online, the more information Google can collect, which helps make your business show up in the search results.
It’s free – You can set up your listing easily, with no cost to you!
How to set up Google Business Profile
If you don't already have a website it is recommend to create your listing before your website goes Live. Please follow these steps:
Sign in to Google: Start by signing in to your Google account. If you don't have one, you'll need to create an account before proceeding.
Visit Google Business Profile: Go to the Google Business Profile website (previously known as Google My Business) at https://www.google.com/business/. Click on the "Manage now" button.
Enter Business Details: You'll be prompted to enter your business name. If your business doesn't appear in the suggestions, click "Add your business to Google".
Provide Business Information: Fill in your business details, including the address, category, phone number, and website URL. Ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Verify Your Business: Depending on your business location and category, Google may require you to verify your business to ensure its legitimacy. Verification methods include receiving a postcard with a verification code, a phone call, or email verification.
Optimise Your Profile: Once your business is verified, take the time to optimise your profile. Add high-quality photos of your business. Provide a detailed description of your business, including services offered, operating hours, and any other relevant information.
Manage Reviews: Monitor and respond to customer reviews regularly. Positive reviews can improve your business's reputation, while addressing negative reviews demonstrates excellent customer service.
Utilise Additional Features: Explore additional features offered by Google Business Profile, such as posts, messaging, and insights. These features can help you engage with customers and gain valuable insights into their behavior.
Keep Your Profile Updated: Regularly update your profile with any changes to your business, such as new locations, updated operating hours, or special promotions. Keeping your information accurate and current ensures a positive experience for customers.
By following these steps and actively managing your Google Business Profile, you can enhance your business's visibility in Google search results and attract more customers to your business.
