Why Google My Business Is Important?
As an SEO expert who has successfully delivered local search campaigns for a decade, I can affirm that Google My Business is a must have for any local business wanting to boost its online visibility. An optimised GMB profile is absolutely necessary for appearing in the top local search results, which not only increases foot traffic but also sales.
If you own or manage a Google My Business (GMB) profile, this quick guide is tailored to help your GMB outrank your competitors. Drawing insights from a wealth of Google My Business data, contributions from numerous marketers, and driven by a passionate marketer fuelled by energy drinks, this guide aims to set your business up for success.
You’ve taken the bold first step, launched your business, completed the necessary paperwork and set up your Google My Business profile, added your logo, photos, and all relevant information, and patiently awaited your verification. Now, everything is set. Calls should be flooding in, but they aren’t….
Here’s what to do to give a boost your GMB profile’s rankings and start receiving those calls.
Initial Setup of your Google Business Profile/Optimisation
Business Name
If your business name naturally includes relevant keywords, you’re off to a good start. If not, consider adopting a DBA that incorporates your primary services, like “Bob’s General Contracting” or “Bob’s Kitchen and Bath Remodel”. This strategy enhances your visibility more effectively than a generic “Bob and Co.”
Disclaimer: Avoid keyword stuffing in your GMB title, as it violates Google’s Terms of Service and can lead to suspension. However, a well-chosen DBA can help you navigate these rules without crossing the line.
Business Category
Selecting the right primary category for your business is super important. Research the categories used by your top five competitors and choose accordingly. You can also add additional relevant categories or custom services once your profile is active.
Description
Create your description to be clear and straightforward, focusing on what you offer without overloading it with keywords. Utilize the full character limit to provide a comprehensive overview of your services.
Contact and Location Details
Add your phone number, website, and social media profiles. The location of your business is a critical but less controllable factor. Ensure your address is visible unless you operate from a residential location without clear signage, as visibility can significantly impact your ranking.
Disclaimer: Hiding your address when operating from a residential location is necessary to comply with Google’s policies, but doing so can disadvantage you in rankings.
Ongoing Optimisation Of Your GBP
Reviews
Consistency in receiving reviews is key. Respond to each review thoughtfully, as this interaction can influence your relevance and appeal to potential customers.
Updates and Photos
Regular updates keep your profile fresh and engaging. Adding new photos monthly and encouraging clients to post pictures of their projects enhances your profile’s appeal and authenticity.
Products
While the impact of listing services as products is debatable, it’s a practice that can’t hurt and might help differentiate your profile.
Advanced Google My Business Tips
Once you’ve implemented the basics and are consistently managing reviews and updates, consider these advanced strategies:
Link Strategies: Ensure the webpage linked in your GMB profile includes the city name and primary service. Encourage customers to leave reviews and upload pictures from their locations to boost local relevance.
Citations: Consistency in your business’s Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) across all listings is essential for credibility and ranking.
Website Integration: Your website’s SEO, including title tags, meta descriptions, site speed, and mobile friendliness, plays a significant role in your GMB ranking.
Local SEO: Focus on optimizing your GMB for your primary service. Diversify cautiously, as expanding too quickly into multiple services can dilute your ranking strength.
Remember, local SEO is an ongoing process. Google frequently updates its algorithms, which can shift the landscape. Stay adaptive, patient, and consistent in your efforts to see sustained success.
Feel free to contribute more tips, data, or feedback in the comments below! Whether you’re a marketer or a business owner, this guide is designed to provide a solid foundation for improving your Google My Business ranking,
