Your Complete Google My Business Optimisation Checklist
Your Google My Business page is like the official online shop front for your business. It’s the first thing users will see when they search for your company, and its standardised format is what consumers are familiar with and will look to for legitimacy. Without a polished Google My Business set up, you run the very real risk of looking like a less trustworthy brand and losing potential customers. So, without further ado, Racket presents to you our ultimate GMB checklist for local businesses, including Google My Business optimisations that will make you stand out head and shoulders above the competition.
Claim, Create and Verify
The first step is to first establish your Google My Business listing – you may find that when you conduct a Google search of your company, there’s a listing already there. This means all you have to do is “claim” it, by selecting “Claim this business” and following the prompts.
Be Thorough With Filling out Your Profile
The more info you include, the better. Increase your chance at discoverability by including as much relevant information about your business as possible. What do you provide? What do you specialise in? Are you local to a specific area, or have years of experience behind you? This is your opportunity to put it all out on the table. However, be careful not to use salesy language or include links – your business description should focus on who you are and what you do. There are sections where you are able to add things like products, services, your opening hours or your menu.
Upload High Quality, Professional Imagery
GMB listings allow all Google users to upload imagery and tag it to a business, so in order to ensure you have your best foot forward, upload official, high-quality imagery that shows your business, products or even logo.
Engage With Your Community
Did you know about Google Posts? That’s right – you can post as your business on your GMB page. If you have an offer, announcement or message you’d like to send out as your business, don’t be afraid to cross-post from your socials over to your GMB page. You can also turn on Google’s messaging feature, making your business more contactable and increasing opportunities for new bookings and enquiries. The Q&A section also allows for users to publicly ask questions about your business, so make sure you check in regularly and ensure questions aren’t left unanswered for long periods.
Manage Your Reviews
Reviews are sometimes the most important and impactful part of a Google My Business listing. Monitor your reviews – who is leaving them, when, and how are you responding to them? When you’re first starting out, your GMB listing will be empty, so don’t be afraid to reach out to some legacy customers and ask if they would be willing to leave a review for your page. Positive reviews over time will generate a greater sense of legitimacy and encourage more audience trust in your business, which is particularly helpful for new potential customers who may not have come across your company before.
Google My Business is free, powerful and creates legitimacy for businesses. So, what are you waiting for? Get started creating your account and thank us later.
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