Google My Business (GMB) is a platform in which local businesses can claim a listing that gets registered in Google Maps. Having a GMB listing is essential toward the survival of your business since 85% of consumers use the internet to find local businesses.
For example, take a look at what happens when a potential customer searches for law firms in Los Angeles.
GMB 3 Pack
This is referred to as Google’s “Map Pack” and it’s the first thing people see when typing in local keywords (after PPC ads, but that’s another subject). If you want to make sure that your business is found at the top of Google’s Map Pack, then you should follow these tips for success.
1. Completely Fill Out Your Business Description
Many businesses forget to fill out the business description in their GMB listing. This is a critical mistake, as most people won’t be able to understand what your business is or what you do without it.
For example, for a company like Advanced Imaging Solutions, would you really know what they are at a first glance? A lot of people wouldn’t. That’s why the company did the right thing and added a helpful description just below their star rating.
GMB Description
Don’t count on potential customers recognizing what your business is about automatically. Completing this field will give you the chance to provide a helpful insight to potential customers.
2. Upload Helpful Images
Regardless if you’re running a restaurant or a law firm, it’s important to upload high-quality and helpful images for all qualified leads. Images speak a thousand words and can help potential customers make the decision to work with you.
If you need inspiration on the types of images you should be taking, check out these:
Image Ideas for Google My Business
3. Respond to All Reviews
Needless to say, online reviews are very important. According to BrightLocal’s Local Consumer Review Survey, 82% of consumers prioritize online reviews. Among those that read reviews, 97% of them look at responses to reviews.
Responding to reviews helps you to be accountable and engage with your customers, regardless of their experience. People expect businesses to take them seriously, and responding to all of your reviews is the best way to do this.
4. Promote Content and Events Via GMB Posts
In 2017, Google rolled out a new feature allowing businesses to post messages on their GMB listings. This is an effective way of promoting content from your website and new events to thousands of people browsing your listing.
Take a look at how this business used a GMB post to promote an upcoming event.
GMB Enhances
It doesn’t make much effort to turn this crafty feature into a promotion tool for your business.
5. Upload Videos
Video marketing has proved over the years that it can generate positive ROI for businesses. Google My Business allows users to upload videos to their listing. These videos can be up to 30 seconds, but some have exceeded 90 seconds without any issue.
Uploading a video will help potential customers familiarize themselves with your business.
Get More Local Leads Today!
Optimizing your Google My Business listing is integral to the success of your local business. At SEO Services Expert, we specialize in local SEO for our clients. Give us a call at (813) 708-1286 to learn more about how we can help you.
