How to Optimize Your Google My Business Listing
Google My Business (GMB) is one of the best marketing tools for business owners. It’s an essential part of any online marketing strategy and a great way to engage your clients.
To reap the many benefits of your GMB listing, you’re going to have to optimize it. In this post, we’re going to tell you what it means to optimize your listing and all the ways it can be optimized.
Claim and Verify Your GMB Listing
This one might seem obvious, but many business owners overlook it.
When people search for your business in Google, your Google My Business listing will appear on the right-hand side of the page. Only if you’ve claimed your listing, though!
Make Sure Your GMB Information is Correct
Next, you should make sure all the information on your profile is correct. Start with your name, address, and phone number.
In the world of digital marketing, we call these pieces of information your NAP. If you want to rank highly in search results, an accurate NAP is essential.
Your Business Name
You should make sure the spelling of the business name is correct. Also, the business name should be consistent with the business name listed on your website, and everywhere else your business is listed. That includes social media profiles, business directories, online magazines, advertisements, community organizations, and more. Google loves consistency.
Your Address
An accurate address is essential, especially if you operate out of a physical location. While you’re double-checking the address, be sure to pin your business location as well.
Your Phone Number
The easier it is for a customer to contact you, the more often you’ll be contacted—it’s that simple!
Make sure your phone number is accurate and consistent with the number listed on your website, Yelp listing, and Facebook page.
Select the Most Suitable Business Category for Your Business
This stage isn’t just a formality. The categories you choose do more than describe your business—they connect you to the customers looking for a business like yours.
Presently, Google lets you select up to 10 categories for your business, but you can only select one primary category. The primary category is the most important.
Our advice for selecting categories? Think of what your ideal customer might type into Google. Use those categories as a way to target your customers.
Upload Photos to Your GMB
Did you know that Google My Business listings that include photos receive more requests for driving directions than those that don’t? It’s true!
Whether or not you operate out of a physical location, photos are essential. Photos add personality to your listing and show you’re invested in your online presence. If you run a restaurant, include pictures of your most photogenic menu items. Does your storefront have beautiful signage? Photograph it! Don’t be afraid to show off your business.
When deciding which photos to upload, select the ones that are:
- Relevant
- Recent
- High Resolution!
These are just a few of the ways you can optimize your business listing. Are you eager to learn more about Google My Business? Leave a comment below with a question of your own!
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