Many of our clients and the business owners that we know here at S-FX put a lot of effort into growing their web presence. They’ll work to improve their SEO, constantly check their progress on Google Analytics, and might even try their hand at Search Engine Marketing. But, most will ignore one of the easiest and most effective ways to inform people about their businesses. It’s a service called “Google My Business” and it’s absolutely free.
Welcome everyone. We hope you’re ready for your weekly dose of #TechTuesdays knowledge!
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a platform that lets you manage how your business information shows up across Google Search, Google+, and Google Maps. You can post your company description, hours, location(s), and photos of your company and employees. You’ll also be able to monitor all your Google reviews, and get analytical insights into your customers. You might think of it as the most powerful directory the world has ever seen.
Benefits of Google My Business
1. Increase Your Online Exposure: When a user types “Lawn Care in NJ” or “Pizza Places Near Me” the following shows up:
The important takeaway here is that the Google Map results show up before the search results. The only way to get on that list is to fill out your information on Google My Business. Once you do, customers who are looking for your business, in your location, will be sent right to you!
2. Easy to Update: If you change your address, hours of operations, etc. Google my business gives you an easy way to make that update in one place. Now you won’t have to be worried that you forgot to update Maps, or Google+; make the change once, and it will take effect across the board.
3. Interact with Your Customers: You will be able to see and respond to all the ratings and reviews put up on Google. This will allow you to thank your customers if they put up good reviews, perform damage control for a bad review, and get a general idea of what your customers think about your business.
4. Analytical Insights: Google My Business will keep track of various analytics for you including: How many people viewed your business information, how many people clicked for driving directions (and where those people are from), how many people clicked the link to your website, and how many people clicked to call you from their cell phones. This can definitely be useful in determining if your web presence is doing enough to draw customers.
Get Started With Google My Business
Going to the Google My Business website and click on “start now” to list your business information. It’s simple to do, and has the extra benefit of being free. This could be one of the most powerful options you ever take to draw more online attention your business, and bring in more customers.
Until Next Week!
