Here is how and why to set up Google My Business, if you haven’t!
Getting seen online is becoming harder than ever before due to the ever-changing rules and regulations surrounding organic search engine optimisation. The climb to that elusive ‘number one’ position on Google seems like a monumental task …it very much is!
But that’s where Google My Business comes in. It’s your quickest route and most reliable way to being found on Google when local people search for what you do. And it’s FREE!
Google My Business can have a dramatic impact on your business, especially for those searching locally.
All you need is your time and enthusiasm…no need to spend a penny!
1. Log into the Google Account you want to associate with your business…or create a Google account if you don’t already have one and claim your business
2. Go to google.com/business and select ‘Manage Now’ in the top right-hand corner and follow the steps.
3. Verify your business
4. Optimise your listing
Optimising your listing is crucial. Once you are logged into your page, work your way through the sections on the menu, at the left side of the page.
POSTS
Create posts on tips, advise, promotions, offers, up-coming events and informative posts…you can have up to a maximum of 10 live posts. There are various types of posts…choose which one suits you best…you can even sell on here!
INFO
Check that your address, postcode and telephone numbers are correct, sometimes Google brings in the wrong information! You have 750 characters to explain why your customers should use you…using key words.
INSIGHT & REPORTS
Look at this section to see how you are doing. This gives you a breakdown of the visits to your website, people who called you, requested directions, messaged you and your photos viewed.
REVIEWS
This is the most important element to ensure is done on Google my Business. Your aim is to get 5 stars! Go and ask your clients to do this for you and always respond to their review. Increase your click through rate to obtain more clients.
MESSAGING
New feature of GMB, messaging allows customers viewing your listing to message you directly…similar to Messenger. Respond to questions, share information, and quickly connect, for free. You will need to install the APP.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Showcase your services, premises and your team, google loves photos of people! Make sure your photos and video file name is a description of what it is or one of your services…using SEO. Also make sure your file size is correct…ask Google to check! Keep adding photos regularly. Your photos will be the most viewed element of Google my Business…mega important!
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Add in all your products and services…using key words that people might use to find these products (SEO)
Google my Business highlights you against your competition…bringing in leads for very little effort, set aside 30 minutes every week to update your Google My Business to add new posts, videos, photos and review requests!
Remember, this is FREE!!!
We are designers but we know the value in the technology that is out there…so we are very happy to pass on any tips and tricks that we have found. How have you got on with Google My Business? Have you had any new business locally since you set it up – do you have any tips you can share?
Contact Susan: sanderson@eikondesign.co.uk