We all want our businesses to stand out online. Have you ever Googled your business? What comes up? As part of our #OneThingWednesday series, we are looking at the importance of having correct information shown on a Google Business Profile.
Those of us of a certain age will remember the Yellow Pages! The extensive, heavy, printed directory of local businesses and services delivered to our doors, which, in its time, was a version of Google.
Fast forward to the present day, and if we need to search for a company, we immediately reach for a mobile or tablet. We are exposed to tens, hundreds, and even thousands of search results here. Business after business is listed, and the choice is in the hands of the searcher.
How do you ensure you stand out from your competitors on Google?
The majority of businesses will have some kind of presence online. Google will pull any information provided to populate its search results. The only way to control the data and claim ownership of your profile for your business is to create a Google Business Profile, formally Google My Business.
Google Business Profile is a free directory service allowing you to control what is shown on a Google search. A listing is displayed on the right-hand side of a Google search and enables you to connect with your customers, add company details, opening times etc. You can also add company updates, list your products and services, and even accept online orders. Your Google Business Profile can help people find you, as your listing will also be visible on Google Maps.
Top-Tip
Your Google listing is your shopfront. One of the most important things on any business listing is to ensure your details are up to date and correct. The wrong postcode or mistyped telephone number could mean the difference in winning business or not.
Go ahead and Google yourself.
Does your listing stand out? Is the address correct, and does the map link to it.
Make it as easy as possible for your customers to find you and take the time every once in a while to check your details are up to date.
You can also use your listing to show any special offers, promotions and news posts.
As Google is the most popular search engine, we recommend having a Google Business Profile to ensure your business makes an excellent first impression online and stands out from the crowd.
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