Search engines have been everyone’s ally for several years. Typically, the first thing that everyone does when they need a service or a product is to go to their favorite search engine and type what they need or what they are looking for. Every business owner should always have in mind this because that is what most consumers do.
According to SEOExpert, 92% of searchers will choose from the first page of local search results. This is one of the main reasons why businesses should keep their local SEO updated and optimize regularly.
Nowadays, it is almost mandatory for businesses to have an online presence if they want to succeed. The primary tool to have this type of presence that everyone should have is Google My Business. Google is the most popular search engine in the world, with a market share, according to Oberlo of 92%.
Having Google My Business optimized is crucial to every business. This tool will provide all the basic information about your business to your existing and possible future consumers. All the essential information about your business such as open hours, website, business locations, phone numbers, and reviews will be shown when people search for your business or for the service/product you offer.
What is Google My Business?
Google offers many free tools. One of the primary ones is Google My Business, which helps business owners manage their digital presence in google searches and maps. It also lets you manage online reviews and knowledge graphs.
Both big and small businesses should have this tool. Not just use it, but use it correctly so you can take in all the advantages and benefits it gives to your business. Google My Business is not a replacement for your website, but as your website, it is a key piece of your online presence.
No matter if you are unfamiliar or have some experience with Google My Business, we compiled a complete checklist to turn you into an expert.
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Google My Business Checklist
It’s possible that your business already has a Google My Business profile, even if you haven’t created one. Google uses online information to create profiles that business owners can claim.
If your business has one already, just claim it and add or edit the information.
In case your business doesn’t have a listing yet, it is time to create one from scratch.
Here is a complete checklist of the information you need to add. Remember to write accurate information and with no errors.
- Claim Your Google My Business Listing
- Update Name, Address, Phone
- Choose relevant categories and subcategories
- Set Operating Hours and Holiday Hours
- Add Link to Your Website (Not Facebook or other social media)
- Add Attributes and Amenities
- Add Profile Photo (No Brand Logo)
- Add High-quality Photos and Videos
- Include keywords in text (Services, products, location)
- Respond to Customer Reviews
- Obtain Reviews on Third Party Sites
- Optimize for Voice Search
- Optimize Website for Mobile Search
- Post Regularly to Google My Business
- Answer Questions from Customers
- For Restaurants: Include your menu with accurate pricing
Conclusion
For your business to rank at the top of the search results, it will definitely need a Google My Business listing. Fill all the boxes required with the right and detailed information for your business to benefit from Google My Business.
Creating a Google My Business listing may sound difficult, but the truth is that it is straightforward to do. It will take time to completely create one, but it will improve your digital presence and your business. Take your time to do it right; it may take a lot of your concentration, so you don’t make any mistakes.
Think of the impact on having your business at the top results. Not only will your business look more attractive online, but it will also create trust with the searcher and will improve engagement. It’s time to turn those searches into new customers.
