June 23, 2019

The importance of your Google my Business listing.

Date published (June 23, 2019)
Category (Web)
Read time (3)
The author
(Emma Fortescue)

A Google my business listing is that one thing we all have but are we using it to its full potential? It's more than just a mark on a map or a place to display your phone number. Let me run you through the basics on your GMB and ways you can leverage its power to boost your own websites ranking.

Share

What exactly is a Google my Business listing?

A tool powered by Google, Google my Business is a tool allowing business owners to manage their online presence across search and Maps within Google. It allows you to create a listing, full of various types of information to help customers find your business.

Over time, some of these listings were automatically created by Google, but it is important now than ever to ensure you can access your listing and ensure your details are correct.

What features does Google my Business include?

Google my Business includes all the basics such as:

  • Business Name
  • Address
  • Phone Number
  • Website
  • Business Hours

Other Features include:

  • Reviews
  • Questions & Answers
  • Posts

How can Google my Business benefit your business?

Having a correctly configured Google my Business listing can improve your websites SEO

Google my Business is essential for local SEO as it enables your business listing to appear in local search results for queries specific to your products or services. Even broad queries with large volumes display local results, and this is something business owners can capitalise on. It also lets users find listing information and get directions directly from the search results — all without actually going to the website, which is perfect for mobile users! Quick, fast, and simple.

Showcase and respond to your reviews.

Google my Business allows you to interact with customers by responding to both positive and negative reviews about your business. Responding to reviews demonstrates that you value your customers and their feedback.

Positive reviews from your customers will improve your business’ visibility within search results. Encourage customers to leave feedback. Don’t be afraid to ask your customers personally to write reviews in-store, online or via email.

Tip Create a link and include it within your email signature or invoice so your customers can leave a review hassle-free.

Displaying business information

Make sure your customers have access to information such as operating hours, website, telephone number and street address when they find your business via Google Maps or Search. It’s important to ensure your Google my Business page is accurate and up to date to provide users with the best experience when searching for your products or services online.

Google my Business listings also offer a range of tools to inform local customers: details like menus, product lists, services, accepted payment types, and book now buttons. You can also add coupons and special offers for your visitors.

Tip Ensure your details on your Google my Business Listing such as phone, email, opening hours etc are mirrored exactly the same within your website. Your websites footer is a great place for this information.

Additional tips to improve local search visibility.

  • Utilise additional features such as posts. Publish promotions, blog posts or any other bits of vital information worth sharing. Keep in mind these do expire after a period of time.
  • Add photos that showcase your business. Choose high-quality photos that highlight different products or services you offer.
  • Keep vital information up-to-date, login and check on your console monthly, ideally fortnightly.
  • Encourage local reviews and social check-ins from your customers. Some businesses even offer an incentive to customers who do so.