Owners of online stores have been harnessing the power of online search tools to help potential buyers find out about their products and buy them. But what if you operate a brick-and-mortar store? Can Google help increase foot traffic to your store while enhancing your credibility?
That is exactly what Google Business, formerly known as Google My Business (GMB), is designed to do. By creating your business profile, you make it easier for your target audience to find you. People within your locality who are searching for products like those you sell will be able to contact you and find out where your store is.
In a nutshell, a Google Business profile uses Google Maps and search features to give potential customers within your area all the information they need about your business. Here is how this can benefit you and a few tips on maximizing these benefits for your business.
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Why Do You Need a Google Business Profile?
It is crucial to have potential visitors know where they can find you for any storefront. With Google Business, you don’t have to rely solely on your website’s contacts page or your social pages.
Whenever an online user within your vicinity searches for products in your niche, your business will come up, complete with directions to get them there. They will know not just the town you’re based in; they will have an accurate street address your business is in.
In addition to your geographic location, Google Business offers you a place to post important business info. This is where web users can confirm your business hours and whether you’re open on a public holiday. They will also have a link to your website if they need more info.
The Power of Word of Mouth
When a trusted friend recommends a brand to you, you’re more likely to buy that product rather than one made by a competing brand that you know nothing about. This is how word-of-mouth marketing works.
Being on Google Business will amplify the benefits of this kind of marketing by providing a platform where people interested in your products can read real reviews from past customers. Thanks to the star rating, they will be able to decide if your products are worth giving a try. Moreover, if they see that you are constantly getting positive reviews, they will be more likely to develop trust in your products and business.
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
As you set up your Google Business profile, you need to bear in mind that there are possibly numerous competitors who have done the same. So you don’t want to create your profile simply to have one; you want to have a profile that will give you a competitive edge.
The first step is to create a Google account if you don’t already have one. You then add your business name and select the category of products or services you offer. After this, you will need to enter your contact and location info.
To enhance your chances of coming up in a user search, complete all the steps in the profile setup with as much detail as possible. You will also want to verify your business location as you complete your setup. Skipping this step will reduce your chances of appearing in location-specific Google search results.
Necessary Exposure
Uploading your business information is only half the battle. Keeping the information up to date is key to guaranteeing good customer reviews. If your business hours change, ensure this is captured in your profile. Adding captivating media to your profile will entice web users to visit your outlets and help create positive associations with your brand.
For this reason, you will want to add a picture of your logo to your profile, including your signature colors. Ensure this image is consistent with the branding on your website and social pages. You can also take clear, high-resolution pictures of your products, offices, and staff to add some zest to your profile.
Keeping tabs on each of these steps can be demanding, taking your focus away from your core business. This is why many businesses will get a boutique digital marketing agency in NYC to handle their profiles.
A Team of Pros
These agencies will have a team of professionals dedicated to enhancing the various aspects of your digital marketing campaign. They will not only set up and maintain your Google Business profile, but they will also enhance its SEO to make it easier for potential buyers to find.