Your free spot on the map.
Google Business Profile is the free tool that puts local businesses on Search and Maps. Here's what it is, how to claim it, and how to optimize it to rank.
If you have a local business and you’re not using Google Business Profile, then stop what you’re doing and go register or claim your listing right now… we’ll wait.
Google Business Profile is a powerful tool that can help your business get found online. It lets you create a free business listing on Google, which shows up in search results when people are looking for businesses like yours.
For those ready for a free source of digital traffic, we’ll explain what it is and how to use it to promote your business — plus some tips to improve your ranking in search results. Let’s get started.
What Is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (the new name for Google My Business) is undoubtedly one of the best marketing tools for your business. The most important part: it’s free, and one of the simplest tools to use to drive traffic and build brand awareness on Google and Maps.
Once you begin verifying or registering your business information, you can help customers find you and tell them the story of your business. You can also post updates and announcements, read and respond to customer reviews, add photos and videos, and much more. In short, it’s an essential tool for anyone who wants to improve their visibility on the web — and best of all, it’s completely free.
How to Claim Your Listing
If you want your business to be found online, claiming your listing is an essential first step. By claiming it, you control how your business appears to potential customers and ensure accurate, up-to-date information is displayed. Here’s how:
- Go to google.com/business and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, create it for free.
- Enter your business name in the search bar. If your business already appears on Google, you’ll see it listed. Otherwise, you’ll see “no results found.”
- If your business already appears, claim it by clicking Claim this business. If it doesn’t appear, click Add your business.
- Enter your business information, including name, address, and phone number.
- Choose a category for your business, then click Continue.
- Add additional information about your business, then click Submit.
You’ll be asked to verify your listing via phone or mail. Once verified, you can start managing your online presence.
Tips for Improving Your Ranking
By optimizing your listing and taking advantage of all the features available, you can improve your ranking in search results and attract more attention from potential customers. A few tips to get started:
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your ranking is to encourage your customers to leave reviews. Provide links on your website or in follow-up emails, and make it easy with specific instructions. Take the time to respond to all reviews, both positive and negative — this shows customers you’re attentive and signals to Google that your business is active and engaged.
Regularly update your business information, including hours of operation, contact information, and address. Inaccurate listings can hurt your ranking, so keep your name, address, phone number, and hours consistent across all platforms.
Add photos and videos to your listing. Consistent posting on your profile and your blog can help with your E-A-T score — and customers like to see what they’re getting before they make a purchase, so add high-quality photos and videos that showcase your products or services.
Benefits of Using It
By creating and verifying a business listing, businesses can control their information and ensure it’s accurate and up-to-date. You can also post updates, photos, and special offers, which help attract new customers and grow your business. The most notable advantages include improved visibility in search results, increased customer engagement, and valuable insights into customers’ preferences and behaviour. Overall, it’s an indispensable tool for any business looking to succeed in the digital age.
Disadvantages of Using It
There are a few potential drawbacks to consider. One issue is that businesses have no control over how their information appears in search results, which can be frustrating if incorrect or outdated information is displayed. Businesses may also receive negative reviews and ratings — while you can respond, they can still damage a reputation. And because it’s a free service, there’s no dedicated customer support if something goes wrong.
In our opinion, the pros far outweigh the cons. Any local business needs to register their website and business on the platform.
Take Your Google Business Profile to the Next Level
When it comes to managing your online presence, it’s important to work with a team you can trust. Sixo Agency is a Google Business Profile management company with a proven track record of success.
We understand the importance of keeping your profile up-to-date and accurate, and we work hard to ensure your listing is optimized for maximum visibility. Our service improves rank and exposure, ultimately building your brand and proximity to generate more traffic to your location. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to help you grow your business online, Sixo Agency is the perfect partner. Contact us today to learn more.
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