- July 16, 2024
- by Kalam Kagaz
- Digital Marketing, Google My Business
Google My Business- Your Business’ True Friend
Imagine a potential customer searching for a service you offer. They type it into Google, and multiple business listings pop up. If yours isn’t optimized or even listed, you’ve already lost that customer before they had a chance to learn about you.
That’s where Google My Business (GMB) comes in. It’s a free tool that helps businesses manage their online presence on Google Search and Maps. From tracking how customers interact with your company to updating crucial details like your hours, location, and reviews—it’s an essential tool for any business owner.
More importantly, it’s not just about visibility. GMB allows you to engage directly with customers, showcase what makes your business unique, and build credibility—all without spending a dime. Let’s break down how to set up and optimize your Google My Business profile for success.
How to Set Up Google My Business (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Create Your Google My Business Account
Go to Google My Business and sign up using a Google account (preferably your business email).
Step 2: Add Your Business Details
- Enter your business name. If it doesn’t appear in the drop-down list, select “Add your business to Google.”
- Choose the most relevant category. This helps Google understand what your business does.
Step 3: Add Your Location (If Applicable)
- If you have a physical store, enter your address.
- If you offer services without a storefront, list your service area instead.
Step 4: Provide Contact Information
- Add your business phone number and website link (or social media page if you don’t have a site).
Step 5: Verify Your Business
- Click Finish and follow Google’s verification process (usually via a postcard, phone, or email).
How to Optimize Your Google My Business Profile
Setting up your profile is just the start. To get the most out of it, you need to optimize it regularly. Here’s how:
1. Complete Your Business Profile
Google ranks businesses higher when their profiles are complete and accurate. Include:
- Business name, address, and phone number (NAP)
- Operating hours
- Website and contact info
- Description of your services
2. Add High-Quality Photos
A business with photos gets 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their website than one without. Don’t just upload random images—make sure they:
- Are high-resolution and well-lit
- Show your storefront, products, team, or behind-the-scenes shots
- Create a professional and inviting impression
Pro Tip: Airbnb listings with professional photos saw a 40% increase in earnings—the same applies to businesses.
3. Keep Your Profile Updated
Customers rely on accurate information. Regularly update your:
- Business hours (especially during holidays)
- Contact details
- New offers, products, and services
4. Leverage Special Features for Your Industry
Depending on your category, Google My Business offers special features:
- Hotels can list amenities and class ratings
- Restaurants & Cafés can showcase menus, popular dishes, and reservation links
- Service Businesses can display booking options and service catalogs
5. Encourage and Respond to Reviews
Reviews build trust and improve your ranking on Google. Here’s what you can do:
- Ask happy customers to leave a review
- Respond to every review—positive or negative
- Handle criticism professionally (businesses that respond to reviews are 1.7x more trusted)
6. Use Google Posts to Engage Customers
Google My Business lets you create posts to share updates, promotions, and events directly on your listing. This keeps your profile fresh and encourages more interaction.
7. Track Performance with Insights
Google provides free insights to show how people interact with your listing:
- How customers find you (Google Search vs. Google Maps)
- Actions taken (calls, website visits, direction requests)
- Customer location data
- Popular search terms used to find your business
Use these insights to refine your marketing strategy and boost engagement.
Extra Tips & Tricks
How to Take Better Business Photos
- Use natural lighting when possible
- Stick to a color scheme that represents your brand
- Keep images high-resolution and avoid over-editing
How to Add Attributes to Your Profile
- In your Google My Business dashboard, click Info
- Select Edit under Add Attributes
- Choose relevant attributes like “Free Wi-Fi” or “Outdoor Seating” and apply
How to Integrate Google My Business with Hootsuite
If you manage multiple platforms, Hootsuite can help:
- Install the Google My Business app from the Hootsuite App Directory
- Log in and authorize access
- Select the business locations you want to manage
- Monitor reviews, post updates, and track engagement—all in one place
Final Thoughts: Why Google My Business is a Must-Have
At the end of the day, if you’re not on Google, you’re invisible to potential customers. Google My Business is one of the most powerful free tools available for local businesses, and if you use it right, it can boost your credibility, improve your online presence, and bring in more customers.
So, don’t wait. Claim your business, optimize your profile, and start getting noticed today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Google My Business, and how does it help my company?
Google My Business is a free tool that helps businesses manage their presence on Google Search and Google Maps. It improves visibility, helps customers find key details about your business, and lets you interact with them directly.
2. How do I create a Google My Business account?
Visit Google My Business, sign in with a Google account, enter your business details, and verify your listing.
3. What should I include in my profile?
Ensure your profile has your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, photos, and a detailed description.
4. How do I manage customer reviews?
Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and respond professionally to all feedback, even negative ones.
5. How can I track my business performance?
Google My Business provides insights on customer searches, clicks, calls, and engagement, helping you understand how people interact with your listing.
