When people are searching for something on the internet there is a high chance they will be doing so using Google. In a typical search for businesses users will often use the phrase “near me” when they are looking for a specific product or service. When they use a search term like that Google will use the customers’ location info to give them a variety of businesses that fit the criteria in their local area. Google has said that one in two people who search for local criteria end up visiting a store that day. If that doesn’t prompt you to make sure your business is set up on Google then I’m not sure what will. Location is important, so use it to your advantage.
Digital is the new way to do things. It just is. It’s convenient, cost effective, and thorough. So if you are not set up on Google then you need to change this immediately. Lucky for you, we have a guide to get you there. It’s easier than you think and it could pay off big for you and your business. Below is a list of step-by-step instructions on how to utilize Google My Business, or GMB for short. Here are the steps to get you started.
- Start a Google account or sign into your existing account.
- Go to Google.com/business
- Click “start now”
- Enter Your Business Name
- It has an auto-complete function that will allow you to see if there are other businesses in your area with the same name. You’ll want to check the information if this happens to make sure it is your business or another
- Enter the Address of your business
- This is for retail or customer facing locations only. If you have a delivery service be sure to check the box. If you don’t have a location for customer interaction then you can click “hide my address”.
- Input Service Areas
- You can select a perimeter of distance around your business that you serve or you can enter specific areas by city, state, or zip
- Choose Category for your business
- You will want to pay special attention to this category because what you choose will have an impact on what people who search for your business will find. You want this category to be as accurate as possible. Depending on the description you select there may be additional options available to you. These are tailored for each kind of business but if you are a restaurant it may offer online ordering, menu, and reservations to your business listing.
- Add Contact Info
- This is simply to add a phone number, email, or website
- Verify your Google My Business info
- If you are uploading your info for the first time then you will need to verify your connection to this business. This will unlock many options for adding things to your listing to make it more appealing.
- Option 1 – Postcard. You will be sent a postcard to the listed address with a verification code. Once you receive the postcard you can then input the code and proceed to customize your listing.
- Option 2 – Phone – It may give you the option to verify by phone. The same process only faster.
- Option 3 – Email – Like the Phone option, this is only available to some customers.
- If you are uploading your info for the first time then you will need to verify your connection to this business. This will unlock many options for adding things to your listing to make it more appealing.
- Make as appealing as possible
- This is a no brainer. You will now have the option to customize your listing once it has been verified. You will want to include as much info as you can that will help your business. Professional Photos, Detailed and interesting description of your business, and product or services listings are among the options. Include all if you can. There are many other options like hours of operation, contact info, and other options. I encourage you to explore all the options and find out what works best for you and your business.
These steps will help you get a crucial part of your online presence up and running. If you are not on Google then it may be hard, even impossible, in this digital day and age to compete with other businesses that are on Google. It is imperative that you take advantage of all the opportunities that you can and this is one you do not want to miss. T22 Media can help you with any of your digital marketing or online presence questions. We are a Grand Rapids, MI based company focused on making sure your business is showcased in the best possible way online. Help your business be its best self. Contact us today for more information.