Google My Business (GMB) is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to create and manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. Here’s how it works and why it’s crucial for your business. To sign up with Google and get a map listing just go here.
Here’s what I find for example when I searched for a plumber in New York. No, I’m not based in New York, but I chose this example because it’s not one of my clients.
So the above output is a typical search result for most services and businesses these days – so how do you even get a listing in the first place.
Google My Business has undergone several name changes over the years. It has been called different names down through the years from when people used to vcall it the 7-pack (at one stage Maps shoed up to 7 listings in search engine results
- Google Local – Initially, Google offered local business information through a feature called Google Local.
- Google Places – The service was rebranded to Google Places in 2010, focusing more on helping businesses get listed in Google Maps.
- Google+ Local – In 2012, Google Places merged with Google+ and was renamed Google+ Local, integrating business listings with the social network Google+.
- Google My Business – In 2014, the service was rebranded again as Google My Business, offering a more streamlined interface and tools for businesses to manage their online presence.
- Google Business Profile – In 2021, Google My Business was renamed to Google Business Profile to better reflect the focus on business profiles within Google Maps and Google Search.
How Google My Business Maps Work
If you haven’t claimed your business profile yet, you should do so right away. There are a few simple steps to follow, and you’ll usually need to verify your address (don’t worry, you can hide it if you don’t actually provide a physical service). Verification might be through a phone call, a postcard with a code, or, in some cases, a video.
This may seem like overkill, but we live in a world full of scammers and spammers, so getting past this minor obstacle ensures that you have that valuable map listing.
- Creating a Listing:
- By creating a GMB listing, your business appears on Google Maps, making it easy for potential customers to find you when they search for related services or products in your area.
- Visibility on Google Maps:
- When users search for businesses like yours, your GMB profile can appear directly on Google Maps. This visibility can drive significant traffic to your business as users can see your location, contact details, and even get directions to your business.
- Contact and Interaction:
- Many businesses only use GMB and still receive calls and inquiries directly from their listing. Users can click on your phone number to call you directly, which means potential customers may contact you without even visiting your website.
Benefits of Google My Business
- Free of Charge:
- GMB is completely free, offering a cost-effective way to boost your online presence and reach more customers.
- Part of Your Overall Online Strategy:
- Google My Business (GMB) should be a key part of your overall online marketing strategy. It boosts your local SEO efforts, making it easier for local customers to find your business. Businesses that use maps, have an effectively optimised website, and engage in straightforward social media activities tend to get more leads.
Validation Process
- Google Validation:
- Google will need to verify your business before your listing goes live. This typically involves receiving a postcard at your business address with a verification code. This small effort ensures that only legitimate businesses are listed, enhancing the credibility of your GMB profile.
Maximizing Your GMB Listing
- Getting Reviews:
- Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews. Reviews build trust and influence potential customers’ decisions. You can share a link with clients – they leave a review and over time you then get a solid set of reviews.
- Posting Regularly:
- Use the GMB platform to post updates, offers, events, and news about your business. Regular posts keep your listing active and engaging, which can help improve your ranking on local searches.
By investing a little time into setting up and maintaining your Google My Business listing, you can significantly enhance your local visibility and attract more customers. This simple, free tool is an essential component of a successful online strategy, providing long-term benefits for your business.
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