Try typing the name of a business into Google. Ideally, the first result is the business’s website, and next to it is a profile with their contact information, location, and Google reviews. That’s a Google My Business profile.
Google My Business is a critical component of a credible, visible online presence. It helps customers find you and makes your business seem more trustworthy by giving useful information and reviews. Fortunately, GMB is also easy to claim, set up, and optimize. Let’s learn how!
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What is Google My Business?
This online directory goes by several names. Google Business, Google My Business, Google Business Profile, GMB, GBP–these all refer to your profile on Google’s business directory. Your GMB profile is what customers should see if they search for your business on Google or if they find it on Google Maps. If they instead search for your type of business in your specific location, you want your business to be one of the profiles in the list that comes up. Better yet, you want it at the top of that list.
Why is Google My Business Important for SEO?
Unsurprisingly, GMB’s primary benefit for your business is visibility. It helps your business get found and is essential to local SEO. Beyond that, GMB is a way to improve your organization’s reputation as an aspect of off-page SEO. Reviews are one of the first ways potential customers will evaluate your business, and Google is one of the first places they’ll go for those reviews.
You may find that your business has a GMB profile even if you’ve never created one. But that doesn’t mean your work is done. Claiming and optimizing your profile makes a big difference in its effectiveness since it means visitors see what you want them to see, and also see that your profile is active.
How to Set Up Your GMB Profile
To set up a Google My Business profile, all you need is a Google Account for your business. With your Google Account, you’ll either create a business profile or claim it on the Google Business Profile Manager page. You can also search for your business on Google and claim the profile.
Tips to Optimize Your GMB Profile
Now that you’ve claimed your Google My Business profile, it’s time to optimize it. Your GMB profile is a chance to spotlight your business favorably and give potential customers an easy route to your products or services. Here are the basics of optimizing your GMB profile.
Add Content and Quality Images
Try to fill out as much of the profile as possible. This includes adding contact information, a description, keywords, attributes, payment options, and whatever else is relevant. Don’t skip the images. Use high-quality images of your business and team.
Respond to Reviews
Reviews are vital to your online reputation. If you don’t have any yet, start asking your customers to leave a review. As you get reviews, try to respond to all of them. You can do “damage control” of bad reviews, but it’s also beneficial to reply to positive ones. This shows customers you’re engaged.
Publish GMB Posts
You can publish posts and updates to your business profile. These are similar to social media posts. It’s the perfect place to share promotions, team updates, blog posts, and highlight your services or products. Try to establish a regular posting schedule, such as once a week. Use quality images and include a “Learn More” button to direct visitors to your website.
How GreenHaven Interactive Can Help Optimize Your GMB Profile
GreenHaven Interactive offers comprehensive digital marketing services, from web design to social media. Google My Business optimization and updates are one of the many ways we can help you build your online reputation and get found by customers. Whether you want a little help or want the task off your plate entirely, we offer personalized solutions for your SEO and marketing needs. Contact us today to learn more and get started!
