Creating a Google My Business (GMB) listing is a crucial step for any local business looking to increase its visibility in Google’s search results and on Google Maps. This detailed guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Sign In to Google My Business
First, you need to sign in to the Google My Business platform. Go to the Google My Business website and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have a Google account, you’ll need to create one.
Step 2: Add Your Business
Once you’re signed in, click on the “Manage now” button. You’ll be prompted to enter your business name. As you type, Google will search for existing businesses that might match yours. If your business doesn’t appear in the list, click on “Add your business to Google.”
Step 3: Enter Your Business Information
In this step, you’ll provide essential information about your business:
- Business Name: Enter the official name of your business as you want it to appear on Google.
- Business Category: Choose a category that best fits your business. This helps Google show your business for the right search queries.
- Location: If you have a physical location customers can visit, select “Yes” and enter your address. If you operate in a service area and don’t have a fixed location, select “No” and specify your service area.
Step 4: Add Contact Information
Provide your business phone number and website URL. This information will be visible in your GMB listing, allowing potential customers to reach out to you.
Step 5: Verification
To ensure the accuracy of the business information, Google requires you to verify your business. The most common verification method is by mail. Google will send a postcard to the business address you provided, which contains a verification code. Other verification methods, such as phone, email, or instant verification, may be available for certain businesses.
Step 6: Customize Your Listing
After verification, you can further customize your GMB listing:
- Business Hours: Enter your operating hours.
- Photos: Upload high-quality photos of your business, products, or services.
- Business Description: Write a brief description of your business, highlighting what makes it unique.
- Attributes: Depending on your business category, you can add specific attributes, like “wheelchair accessible.”
Step 7: Manage and Respond to Reviews
Encourage your customers to leave reviews on your GMB listing and make sure to respond to them. This not only improves your business’s visibility but also builds trust with potential customers.
Step 8: Use Google Posts
Take advantage of Google Posts within your GMB dashboard to share updates, offers, events, and more. This feature helps keep your customers informed and engaged.
Step 9: Monitor Insights
Google My Business provides valuable insights into how customers find and interact with your listing. Regularly check these insights to understand customer behavior better and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
Setting up a Google My Business listing is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your local business’s online presence. By following these steps, you’ll make it easier for potential customers to find and engage with your business online. Remember, maintaining and updating your GMB listing is just as important as setting it up, so keep your information accurate and up-to-date.
If you need help setting up Google My Business, ThoseGeeks offers consultation services to help. Just drop us a line and we’ll get you off on the right track.