Google My Business: Why It’s Important and How It Helps In Local Search
If you’re trying to build your business’s online presence, then it’s clear which platform you need to start with: Google! Though many businesses think of social platforms first when they consider a digital platform, optimizing your business’s Google profile is one of the most important things you can do, especially for local search. In fact, according to several 2020 studies, Google My Business is the number one driver of local SEO business, with reviews closely following.
Using Google My Business is the best way to connect with your local audience and manage how your business does in the search engine. All you have to do to get started is claim your Google listing as the business owner. While it does not replace the need for a business website, it's totally free and provides a quick way for potential customers to get information about your business. Here are some ways Google My Business can help you in local search:
Ranking. Having an accurate and active Google My Business (GMB) profile will ultimately improve your ranking in the search engine. Using data concerning relevance, distance, and prominence, Google will use the information you post on your GMB to boost or lower your ranking on Google. This is particularly useful if you’re trying to build your local audience, as you’re much more likely to have a better ranking than those within close proximity to you.
Accurate Information. Providing accurate information about your business is one of the most important things you can do with GMB. List your opening hours (including holiday hours and closings), phone number, address, and pick an accurate category for your business. Provide some basic information as well, such as what products and services you offer, and try to keep it as in line as possible with your website.
Reviews. Include reviews on your GMB page! These reviews come from real customers that you’ve served, and a good review can mean everything to a new client. Manage these reviews by making sure they’re real, positive, and accurate, and get rid of any reviews that may be spam.
Keywords. Google My Business is a great way to include keywords about your business that could help improve your ranking. Pick out relevant words and phrases that are related to your business’s products, services, location, industry, etc., and include them in your description and any time you post to your GMB profile.
Photos. Just like reviews, having real and accurate photos of your business will really help you with your local customers. Businesses that include photos are more likely to perform better than those without photos, with 42% more requests for driving directions to the business on Google Maps and 35% more click-throughs to the official website.
Reconnaissance Consulting makes creating a digital marketing strategy easy. Working with one of our experienced consultants, we’ll help you grow your business and connect with customers, all while getting clear positive results and saving you money. Let us help you find a solution! Visit our website for more information and schedule a FREE consultation today!
Sources:
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/local-seo/optimize-google-my-business/
https://yoast.com/google-my-business/