As a business owner, you are always looking for ways to improve your visibility online. One of the most effective ways to do that is by optimizing your Google My Business (GMB) listing. GMB is a free tool that allows your business to be featured in Google Maps, search results, and the “local pack” that appears on top of the search results.
Optimizing your GMB listing is crucial because it can help you rank higher in the search engine results pages (SERPs) and attract more potential customers to your store. In this article, we will give you actionable tips to turbocharge your GMB listing in just 30 minutes.
Claim Your Listing and Keep It Up-To-Date
The first step to optimizing your GMB listing is to claim it. Google allows any business to claim their listing by verifying their ownership. This is an essential step because it ensures that you have control over the information displayed in your listing and allows you to add more details.
Once you’ve claimed your listing, it’s important to keep it up-to-date. Make sure all the information displayed is accurate, including your phone number, address, hours of operation, and website URL. Keeping this information updated will ensure customers have the right information, and your listing won’t be penalized for outdated information.
KFC is an excellent example of a business that keeps its GMB listing up-to-date. Their listing displays accurate information, making it easy for customers to find their nearest location.
Optimize Your Business Description and Categories
Your business description and categories play a significant role in how Google ranks your listing. When writing your business description, focus on including relevant keywords that describe your business and services accurately. The description should be clear, concise, and optimized for search engines.
When choosing your business categories, be as specific as possible. This will help customers find your business when searching for specific keywords related to your industry. Google allows you to choose up to 10 categories, so make sure to select the most relevant ones.
For example, Sephora includes multiple categories, including “Cosmetics Store,” “Beauty Supply Store,” and “Perfume Store,” making it easy for potential customers to find exactly what they’re looking for.
Encourage Reviews and Respond Promptly
Reviews are an essential aspect of your GMB listing because they affect your ranking and help customers make informed decisions. Encouraging customers to leave reviews can boost your credibility and attract more customers. Make sure to respond to reviews promptly, whether they’re negative or positive.
Responding to reviews, especially negative ones, shows that you care about customers’ feedback and are willing to make things right. It’s also a great opportunity to showcase your excellent customer service and turn negative reviews into positive outcomes.
Take a look at McDonald’s GMB listing, where they have over 130,000 reviews, and most of them are positive. They respond to reviews promptly, demonstrating excellent customer service and engagement.
Add Photos and Videos
Adding photos and videos to your GMB listing can help potential customers see what your business offers and how it looks like. It’s a great way to showcase your products, services, and atmosphere, which can entice customers to visit your store.
Make sure to add high-quality photos and videos that accurately represent your business. Include photos of your storefront, products, services, staff, and special events. You can also add a virtual tour of your store, which allows customers to take a look inside before visiting.
Five Guys GMB listing is an excellent example of a business that uses photos and videos effectively. Their listing includes high-quality photos of their burgers, fries, and shakes, as well as a virtual tour of their store.
Conclusion
Optimizing your GMB listing is essential if you want to attract more customers to your business. By claiming your listing, keeping it up-to-date, optimizing your business description and categories, encouraging reviews, responding promptly, and adding photos and videos, you can turbocharge your GMB listing in just 30 minutes.
Remember that your GMB listing is often the first impression potential customers have of your business, so make sure it accurately represents your brand and values. With these tips, you can improve your GMB listing and attract more customers to your store.