Google My Business (GMB) is one of the most underutilized tools by small business owners, especially those who rely on local customers. Setting up and optimizing your GMB profile can be a game-changer for your online visibility and local SEO.
Let’s break down how to use Google My Business to attract local clients and grow your business.
Set Up Your GMB Profile Correctly
The first step is claiming and verifying your Google My Business profile. It’s completely free, and it allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Google Maps.
When setting up your profile, make sure to enter complete and accurate information. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website URL, and hours of operation. The more details you provide, the easier it will be for potential customers to find you.
Don’t forget to add high-quality photos of your business. Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to their websites. Whether it’s a photo of your storefront, your products, or your team in action, visuals make your listing stand out and give customers confidence.
Optimize Your Business Description
Your GMB business description is another critical element that can improve your SEO. In this section, you can explain what your business does, what sets you apart from competitors, and what services you offer. Be sure to incorporate relevant keywords (like "landscaping services" or "organic bakery") to help customers find your business when searching for your products or services.
A good description is clear, concise, and focused on what your customers need to know. Make it compelling, and try to address the pain points your target audience may have. For instance, a local plumber might mention how they specialize in emergency plumbing services and provide quick, affordable solutions.
Get and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews are one of the most important ranking factors for local SEO. Businesses with positive reviews tend to rank higher in search results. So, encourage your happy customers to leave reviews on your GMB profile.
Responding to reviews is also essential. It shows potential customers that you care about their feedback and builds trust. Whether it’s a positive or negative review, always respond in a professional manner and offer solutions to any issues raised.
Post Updates Regularly
Google My Business allows you to post updates directly to your profile, similar to how you’d post on social media. These updates can include announcements, new product launches, special offers, or blog posts.
Posting regularly not only keeps your customers engaged but also signals to Google that your business is active and relevant. These posts can also show up in Google search results, giving you extra visibility.
Use GMB Insights to Track Performance
Google My Business also provides valuable insights into how customers are finding and interacting with your listing. You can see how many people are calling you, requesting directions, or visiting your website directly from your GMB profile.
Use these insights to adjust your strategy. For example, if you notice that a lot of people are finding you through mobile searches for “landscaping services near me,” you may want to emphasize your mobile-friendly website and offer more location-based content.
