Google Business is a powerful tool that allows local businesses to connect with customers online. When used correctly, it can help improve your visibility, increase website traffic, and boost customer engagement. In this article, we will discuss seven best practices for setting up and managing your Google Business listing.
Accurate and Consistent Information
One of the most important things to keep in mind when setting up your listing is to make sure that all of the information is accurate and consistent. This includes your business name, address, phone number, and hours of operation. Incorrect or inconsistent information can confuse potential customers and make it more difficult for them to find your business.
Google will send email reminders to update your holiday hours. It is strongly encouraged that you take the time to do so as this will provide a better user experience for your target audience and show Google that you are actively contributing to your listing.
Optimize Your Listing with Keywords
Make sure to use relevant keywords in your business name, description, and categories. This will help your listing show up when customers search for businesses like yours. Keywords can also be used in your response to reviews. Be absolutely sure though that it makes sense for the response. You certainly do not want to come off as spammy.
Upload High-Quality Photos
Images are a key part of any Google Business listing. Make sure to upload high-quality photos of your business, including shots of the exterior, interior, and any products or services you offer. Photos of your business can help customers get a sense of what to expect when they visit your location and make it more likely that they will choose your business over a competitor's. I've heard from multiple Google Business reps that this is a ranking signal as well.
Encourage Customer Reviews
Google Business reviews can be a powerful way to attract new customers. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your listing. Responding promptly and professionally to both positive and negative reviews can also help build trust with potential customers.
Use Google Posts
Google Posts is a feature that allows you to share updates, offers, and other information about your business directly on your Google Business listing. Use this feature to share news and promotions, highlight new products or services, and more.
Monitor Your Listing Regularly
Make sure to monitor your Google Business listing regularly to ensure that all of the information is accurate and up-to-date. Also, keep an eye out for any fake or incorrect listing of your business, Google allows users to claim ownership of a listing and mark it as incorrect.
Utilize Google Insights
Google Business Insights provide data on how customers interact with your business in search and on maps. This information can help you understand which actions drive the most engagement and help you optimize your listing accordingly.
Google Business is a powerful tool that can help local businesses connect with customers online. By following these best practices, you can make sure your listing is accurate and engaging, and that it is reaching the right audience. Keep your information updated and accurate, use keywords effectively, upload high-quality photos, encourage customer reviews, use Google Posts, monitor your listing regularly, and utilize the analytics tools provided by Google to optimize your listing for maximum impact. By doing so, you will be able to reach more customers, increase website traffic and boost engagement with your customers.
Keep in mind that Google's policies, guidelines, and features are constantly updating, and it's important to stay updated with the latest changes. you can always check Google's guidelines for up-to-date information.
Need help with your Google Business listing? As an expert freelance local SEO consultant, I'm here to offer my expertise in any capacity. Feel free to reach out with your questions!