Maximise Local Search: 6 Tips for Optimising Google My Business
So, you're running a local business but feel like you're the best-kept secret in town. Your competitors are hogging all the local search traffic, and you're left wondering why your phone isn't ringing off the hook. Well, mate, it's time to get serious about your Google My Business (GMB) profile.
Optimizing your GMB listing isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have if you want to dominate local search results. Let's cut to the chase: here are 6 essential tips to supercharge your GMB profile and put your business on the local map—literally.
1. Claim and Verify Your Listing
Why It Matters
You can't optimise what you don't control. Claiming and verifying your GMB listing gives you full access to manage the information displayed about your business on Google Search and Maps.
How to Do It
-
Search for Your Business: Go to Google Maps or Google Search and look for your business name.
-
Claim the Listing: If you find your business, click on "Claim this business" or "Own this business?"
-
Verify Your Business: Google will offer verification methods like phone, email, or postcard. Follow the steps to verify.
Pro Tip
If your business isn't listed yet, create a new GMB listing from scratch. Make sure to use an email address associated with your business domain.
2. Complete Every Section of Your Profile
Why It Matters
Google loves comprehensive profiles. The more information you provide, the higher your chances of appearing in local search results.
How to Do It
-
Business Name: Use your real-world business name. Avoid keyword stuffing; it's against Google's guidelines.
-
Address and Service Areas: Enter your exact address and specify service areas if you deliver or offer services elsewhere.
-
Business Hours: Keep your operating hours up to date, including holidays and special events.
-
Phone Number and Website: Provide accurate contact information.
-
Business Description: Craft a compelling description (up to 750 characters) that highlights what makes your business unique.
-
Categories and Attributes: Choose the most relevant categories and add attributes like "Free Wi-Fi" or "Wheelchair Accessible".
Pro Tip
Use keywords naturally in your business description to improve your local SEO, but don't overdo it.
3. Upload High-Quality Photos and Videos
Why It Matters
Visual content grabs attention. Businesses with photos receive more requests for directions and clicks to their websites.
How to Do It
-
Profile and Cover Photos: Use clear, high-resolution images that represent your brand.
-
Interior and Exterior Photos: Show customers what to expect when they visit.
-
Product and Service Photos: Highlight what you offer.
-
Team Photos: Put a face to your business; it builds trust.
-
Videos: Upload short videos (up to 30 seconds) showcasing your business.
Pro Tip
Regularly update your photos to keep your profile fresh. Geotagging your images can also give you a slight SEO boost.
4. Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews
Why It Matters
Reviews are social proof. Positive reviews can significantly influence potential customers' decisions and improve your local ranking.
How to Do It
-
Ask for Reviews: Politely request customers to leave a review after a purchase or service.
-
Make It Easy: Provide a direct link to your GMB review page.
-
Respond to Reviews: Engage with all reviews—thank customers for positive feedback and address negative comments professionally.
-
Flag Inappropriate Reviews: If you receive fake or malicious reviews, report them to Google for removal.
Pro Tip
Never buy reviews or offer incentives; it's against Google's policies and can get your listing suspended.
5. Utilize Google Posts
Why It Matters
Google Posts allow you to share updates directly on your GMB profile, capturing the attention of searchers before they even visit your website.
How to Do It
-
Create Posts Regularly: Share news, promotions, events, or product updates.
-
Use Engaging Content: Include compelling images and clear calls-to-action.
-
Monitor Performance: Use GMB insights to see how your posts are performing and adjust accordingly.
Pro Tip
Posts expire after seven days (except event posts), so keep them fresh by posting at least once a week.
6. Leverage the Q&A Feature
Why It Matters
The Q&A section is often overlooked but can be a valuable resource for potential customers seeking quick answers.
How to Do It
-
Monitor Questions: Regularly check your GMB listing for new questions.
-
Provide Prompt Answers: Respond quickly with accurate information.
-
Seed Common Questions: Anticipate frequently asked questions and have someone (even yourself) ask them so you can provide answers.
-
Upvote Valuable Q&As: Upvoted questions and answers appear higher, making them more visible.
Pro Tip
Keep answers concise and informative. Use this feature to address concerns and highlight unique selling points.
Final Thoughts
If you're not leveraging Google My Business to its full potential, you're handing over customers to your competitors on a silver platter. Optimizing your GMB profile isn't rocket science, but it does require consistent effort.
At Paragon Panda, we specialise in helping businesses like yours dominate local search. From setting up your GMB profile to ongoing optimisation, we've got you covered.
Ready to put your business on the map and attract more local customers? Let's chat.