Businesses spend a lot of time optimizing their websites for Google. But there’s much more to Google than a search platform and online directory. Through “Google My Business,” Google offers businesses several tools to better reach and stay engaged with their consumers. It’s a directory of any and all businesses, with contact information, reviews, and links to social channels. These features can help both customers and businesses alike.
If you’re new to the platform, here is what you need to know:
Customers can contact you faster. Google Business accounts allow you to add a phone number, address, and website. It allows consumers to contact you directly rather than searching through your website for the information. This helps, especially on mobile devices, if customers want directions to your store or a number to call and ask questions.
Avoid false information about your company. Anyone can claim a Google Business account, whether or not they are a company member. While this is rare, it’s possible, especially if another business has a similar name to yours. Claiming the account name for your business under a generic company email will protect you from someone else taking your name.
Increase the visibility of business reviews. Consumers usually read reviews on a product or service before making a purchase. If they’re trying to make a quick decision (such as which restaurant or hair salon to go to in an hour), they would prefer to compare reviews on Google rather than search individual websites. Creating an account allows customers to read and give public feedback on their experiences with your company.
Find out who’s searching for you. Google My Business has an Insights section, which gives you stats on your visibility, engagement, and audience. Much like Facebook’s Insights, Google allows you to compare who visits your page most often and what terms they search to find your business. Google Insights can better prepare you to create an AdWords campaign.
Connect your Google Account to AdWords. To create AdWords campaigns, you have to have a Google My Business account. AdWords can help you increase visibility in the search engine and collect additional data on your target market. AdWords is the most popular pay-per-click advertising platform and can be a highly effective form of paid digital marketing.
More: Free Digital Advertising for Nonprofits With Google Ad Grants
Be seen at the top of Google searches. Google My Business listings appear above organic search results for local searches. One-third of google searches are for local businesses, and 50 percent of those who search visit a store that same day. You can rank local results at the top by setting up your account in just ten minutes.
More: A Guide to Google Search Ranking Systems
To learn more about creating a Google My Business and utilizing it for digital marketing, visit the Tucker/Hall Resource Center.
