Have you noticed that a Google business listing frequently appears at the top of search results, even on an exact match search?
While your website is the centerpiece of your business’ online presence, your Google Business Profile is a critical component to getting found. A Google Business Profile (previously known as Google My Business listing) is a free tool for businesses, that — if optimized, and leveraged properly — can dramatically increase visibility for your business.
As we shared in a prior post:
Optimizing your Google Business Profile will showcase your business in a Google Search. An up-to-date, comprehensive profile can improve your findability in a local search, drive traffic to your website and bring in new customers.
Resolve to prioritize your business’ findability
With the new year just weeks away, now is the time to set yourself up for business success in the new year. Focus on strategies that will drive visits to your website, and test your site’s user experience to ensure it delivers for visitors. Follow these three steps to showcase your business on Google.
1. Claim and verify
Since Google’s algorithms determine the placement of content on search results pages, ensuring your Google profile is complete, refined and active is essential. You may need to create your Google listing from scratch, or to claim or verify one that’s been established. While a Google listing may already exist for your business, don’t assume that it’s built out or optimized.
2. Complete your profile
A Google Business Profile includes more than just your web address and basic contact info. Dig in and capitalize on all available information fields. Upload your logo and add a keyword-rich business description, as well as services offered and location data (with GPS coordinates that match Google maps). Review your settings to ensure you’re receiving appropriate notifications.
3. Get (and stay) active
Once your Google Business Profile is refined, post regular updates to keep it active and visible. Utilize the data provided to learn about how customers are finding your business. Monitor your notifications and respond in a timely fashion.
Our holiday gift … illuminate your path to success
Feeling overwhelmed or distracted at this busy time of year? We’ve got you covered.
Download our free Google Business Profile Reference Guide with steps to create or claim your profile, key fields to complete and recommended ongoing activities to keep your business lit up like a Christmas tree in the new year.
At this season, we extend a sincere thank you to our clients, partners and colleagues. Wishing you the happiest of holidays, and looking forward to another great year in 2023!
