What Is Google My Business?
A Google My Business (GMB) Profile is a tool created by Google to help business owners manage their online presence across a range of Google-owned platforms including Google Search (both desktop and mobile) as well as Google Maps.
You can create, verify and update your profile or “business listing” within the GMB environment WITHOUT having to edit or code anything into your website.
It was originally developed to help searchers quickly find relevant, accurate information about local businesses. However, with its rise in popularity, the GMB platform has quickly evolved to allow businesses to post updates on their profile, send messages and even send out quotes on the fly.
A Google Business Profile allow businesses to add important information that customers need to see, such as:
- Business Name
- Category
- Opening Hours
- Contact Number
- Website URL
- Google Business Description & USP
- Opening Date
- Photos
- Reviews
What Is the Function of a Google My Business Profile?
Benefits of a Google My Business Profile
Easy to Present Your Business Information to A Wide Audience
If someone who knows about your business searches for it on Google, your business profile will show up at the top of the search results.
But what about if someone doesn’t know who you are? What benefit is a Google My Business profile?
If someone is searching for something more generic, you can still show up for relevant results just by having a highly optimised GMB profile.
As an example, if you own a restaurant in Malvern, when we type in “Italian restaurant Malvern” we are presented with what’s known as the ‘map pack’ or ‘3-pack’ where Google displays the three most relevant businesses for that search query.
Helps Your Local SEO Ranking
Having an optimised GMB profile will allow you to show up for a wider range of relevant local results at the TOP of Google – giving you additional exposure that wouldn’t have otherwise had if you didn’t create your business profile.
Your Google Business Profile is automatically indexed by Google and will increase your exposure to potential clients.
Generally, websites that already rank strongly in the organic SERPs tend to appear more often in the map pack too, providing a free additional piece of ‘real estate’ on Google.
Provides Social Proof & Increases Your Conversions
One of the most important differentiating factors for businesses in the map pack are the star ratings, also known as ‘Google Reviews’.
This is the first encounter people have with your business and gives prospective customers the vital ‘social proof’ that your business is well received by others who have interacted with it in the past.
Think about it, which restaurant would you choose, one with 74 ‘3-star’ reviews or one with 160 ‘5-star’ reviews?
A live Google Profile also allows and encourages clients to interact directly with your business by leaving reviews or even uploading their own photos. So your Google profile can enhance consumer experience and increase exposure for your business. Of course, reading and responding to comments will also bring you closer to your customers.
Get Started Today
Your Google Business Profile should be a pivotal part of your local SEO strategy. Don’t miss out on reaching customers that are probably looking for you already.
Contact our team at practiceedge to be seen online!
