A Google My Business listing is critical when it comes to local SEO. It helps your site appear in local search results for queries similar to your products or services, and it’s free! Google Places is the new local Yellow Pages; and since the internet is so accessible today, there are very few people who reach for the large, stained, yellow book next to the home phone. According to Google, one out of every five searches is related to a location, which Google Places has focused on this aspect. Small businesses targeting local customers benefit immensely from Google Places. Keep these tips in mind to optimize your Google My Business page.
Make sure to claim your listing – Claiming your business on Google Places is the most important key when it comes to optimizing your page. If you don’t claim your business, it leaves it open to be claimed by someone else; who can then add incorrect information. Make sure you have full access and control over your Google Places pages.
Ensure your hours and phone number are correct – it is very important to make sure the number listed, matches the number displayed on the landing page that it links to. Store hours and phone numbers change frequently, so check your Google My Business page frequently to ensure these changes have been made on the page as well.
Ensure that the link is still directing to your site – You always want your potential customers to be able to access your site; check to make sure that the link provided leads to your website, without any 404 errors.
Check images – great images get shared, which means they attract links and are pulled into search results. Consider uploading new pictures or pictures with a higher resolution, it makes it much easier for your customers to find and identify you.
Make sure your logo is up to date – Businesses change over time, and so do their logos. Make sure your logo is always up to date. This will ensure that your potential customers will recognize your business.
Make sure you’re mobile friendly – There has been increased visibility for Google My Business on mobile devices, showing the three top Google local results. Many people use their phone to search for a certain product, service, or business, and then call directly from their phone; so make sure your site is mobile friendly.
Create a Google Places page for every location – If your business has more than one location, make sure to make a page for each location. Check to make sure that all of the information on the page is correct for that specific location. This will help your customers find exactly which location they are looking for.
Encourage reviews – The higher your ratings, the more number of customers you get, so why not encourage your pleased customers to leave a review!