Google My Business (GMB) is a free tool for businesses to manage their online presence on Google, including Search and Maps. GMB is an important and powerful tool for local SEO. By verifying and updating your information, this easy-to-use platform will help customers find you and tell them the story of your business. Read on to discover the top 5 ways to optimize your Google My Business listing.
1.) Claim & Verify your Google My Business Listing
Any qualifying local business can claim their free listing by visiting www.google.com/business. Show potential customers that you’re open for business by completing all the pertinent information Google asks for.
2.) Make Relevant Posts
Google posts are basically tiny ads that show up in a Google search on your GMB listing. Be creative. Add a photo, CTA (call to action), event or a link to another website. The possibilities are endless. Posts stay “live” for a week then expire, whereas events are removed once they have finished. Don’t worry if you forget to post, Google is great at sending reminders via email.
3.) Booking Button
Google’s new Booking Button feature can really help your business or organization get noticed. If your business is appointment based and you use an integrated scheduling software, potential customers can now book with you directly from GMB.
4.) Google My Business Reviews
Unlike Yelp, which strongly discourages businesses from asking for reviews, Google encourages reviews (as long as done ethically as per Google guidelines). Online reviews appear next to your GMB listing in Google Maps, and help you to stand out in a sea of competition.
EXPERT TIP: When a customer leaves you a review— positive or negative — make sure to respond. Not only does it show that you appreciate that customer’s response, it also shows potential customers that you care.
5.) Messaging
Connect directly with customers by turning on GMB Messaging. This feature allows them to send you direct text messages. Unfortunately, as of right now the only way someone can message your business is if they do a mobile web search on Chrome. The GMB Messaging feature is currently unavailable to desktop or mobile app users.
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