In order to be found by consumers in your vicinity you need to get your business ‘on the map.’ In the past, it would be similar to getting your business listed in the local phone book (back when people used phone books). Today, the first and most important place to start improving your local online presence is with your Google Business Profile (GBP).
If you’re unsure what this is, here are some visuals from local searches for ‘post office’. The Google Business Profile is (1) where the Google maps listing comes from in search results. And the Google Business Profile is also responsible for the (2) knowledge panel of individual locations.
At a quick glance searches can see your basic business information such as address, hours of operation and phone number. Beyond that, consumers can interact with your GBP listing in meaningful ways such as
Google continues to add value for local businesses by incorporating new features to this product, and these features will continue to evolve over time. It’s important to stay up-to-date on these changes as the Google Business Profile will give many people their first impression of your business. Many will see this listing before they ever visit your website.
As the owner of your Google Business Profile, you will have access to insights as to how people are finding your business on Google and how they are interacting with the listing. All of these features can be of great benefit to local businesses trying to be found online. But there is a catch. These features can only benefit your business if you follow the four steps below. If you need help, we can assist with all four of these steps.
First you must have a Google Business Profile. If you’re unsure if one already exists, search for your business on Google and see if it appears.
Whether a GBP listing already exists, or you just created one, you must claim the listing. This involves verifying that you are the business owner and have a right to that listing.
Optimize your GBP listing by making sure it is completely and accurately filled out. Upload several pictures related to your business, including the inside and outside in applicable.
Monitor your listing for any consumer generated content such as reviews and questions about your business. Keep your listing up-to-date.