If you want to boost your local visibility, increase customer engagement, and improve your business’s online presence, setting up a Google My Business account is a must. With a Google My Business (GMB) listing, you’ll be able to showcase your business in Google Search and Google Maps, helping local customers easily find you. Whether you’re a small business owner or looking to improve your online reach, this guide will walk you through the process, step by step, and provide best practices for optimising your GMB account.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Google My Business
1. Sign in to Google My Business
The first step to getting your business listed is to sign in or create a Google account. Make sure to use a business email address so your account remains professional and secure.
- Visit the Google My Business website.
- Click on “Manage Now” and log in with your Google account.
2. Enter Your Business Name
You’ll need to enter your exact business name as you want it to appear on Google. Consistency is important, so make sure the name matches any other listings, like your website or social media accounts.
3. Choose Your Business Category
Selecting the right business category is crucial for helping customers find you. Google will provide suggestions based on what you type, so select the one that best matches your services. If your business falls under multiple categories, you can add secondary categories later.
4. Add Your Business Location
For brick-and-mortar businesses, add your physical address so customers can find you on Google Maps. If you operate as a service provider without a storefront (like a plumber or a mobile pet groomer), you can select the option “I deliver goods and services to my customers” and add your service area.
5. Enter Contact Information
Adding your business phone number and website is essential for allowing customers to reach you. Make sure this information is accurate and up to date.
6. Complete Your Business Hours
Be sure to include your operating hours, including holidays or special hours. Accurate hours ensure that customers know when you’re available and help avoid negative experiences if they show up and find you closed.
7. Verify Your Google My Business Account
Once all the initial information is filled out, it’s time to verify your Google My Business account. Most businesses will receive a verification postcard sent to their business address within five days. However, some businesses might have the option for phone, email, or instant verification.
How to Verify a Google My Business Account
- Postcard Verification: This is the most common method. Google will send a postcard with a unique code to your business address, which you’ll enter into your GMB dashboard.
- Phone or Email Verification: For some businesses, Google will offer the option to verify via phone call or email, where you’ll receive a code.
- Instant Verification: If your business is already verified through Google Search Console, you might be eligible for instant verification.
Best Practices for Google My Business Setup
After setting up your GMB account, following these best practices will help ensure that your listing performs optimally in Google Search and Maps:
1. Use High-Quality Images
Upload high-quality images that showcase your business, such as the storefront, interior, staff, or products. Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks.
2. Add a Business Description
Make sure to write a concise and engaging business description that highlights what your business offers and what sets you apart. Keep it under 750 characters and focus on your key services and values.
3. Update Your Information Regularly
Ensure that your hours, services, and contact details are always up to date, especially if you have temporary closures or new offerings. Google favors listings with accurate and complete information.
4. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews play a huge role in local search rankings and conversions. Encourage happy customers to leave Google reviews, and respond to all reviews (positive or negative) professionally. Responding shows you care about customer feedback and can boost your reputation.
5. Use Google Posts to Share Updates
Utilise the Google Posts feature to share updates, promotions, or news about your business. Google Posts show up directly in your GMB listing and can increase engagement.
How to Optimise a Google My Business Listing
Optimising your GMB profile goes beyond just setting it up. Here’s how to optimise your Google My Business listing like a pro:
- Choose the Right Keywords: Integrate relevant keywords into your business description and services that potential customers are likely searching for. Think about the terms customers would use to find your business.
- Activate Messaging: Google offers a messaging feature that allows customers to send messages directly from your GMB listing. Enable this feature to quickly engage with customers.
- Add Products and Services: If your business offers products or services, make sure to add them to your GMB profile with detailed descriptions and pricing.
- Monitor Insights: Use Google My Business Insights to track how customers are interacting with your listing. Insights will show you how people are finding your business, what actions they are taking (clicks, calls, etc.), and where they are located.
How to Set Up GMB Like a Pro
Want to set up GMB like a pro? Follow these advanced tips to take your Google My Business profile to the next level:
- Leverage Q&A: Preemptively answer common questions in the “Questions & Answers” section of your listing. This helps customers get the information they need quickly.
- Use UTM Parameters: Add UTM tracking to your website link so you can monitor traffic coming directly from your GMB listing via Google Analytics.
- Add Special Attributes: If your business qualifies for any special attributes like “Black-owned,” “Women-led,” or “LGBTQ+ Friendly,” make sure to enable these attributes on your listing.
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your business is not only visible on Google but also effectively optimised for local searches.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Google My Business account is essential for any local business looking to increase visibility and attract more customers. By following this step-by-step guide to setting up Google My Business, and using the best practices outlined above, you can ensure your listing performs optimally. Don’t forget to regularly monitor and update your profile to stay ahead of competitors and provide the best experience for your customers.
If you want to learn more about how to optimise a Google My Business listing or need further assistance with your GMB setup, feel free to reach out for professional help!