Google My Business: An Introduction

January 29, 2021 January 29, 2021

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Do you operate your own business? If so, have you taken advantage of any digital marketing tools yet? Everything is digital nowadays, so companies must be too.

One of the most popular tools available is Google My Business. Any business owner with in-person services can access it. It is easy to use and can increase your company’s reach. This is essential for your brand’s marketing strategies.

What Is Google My Business?

Google My Business, abbreviated GMB, is a free digital marketing tool. It helps businesses grow their online presence. This tool is crucial in reaching new customers through the Internet.

GMB handles a business’s Google listing. It pulls up directions, reviews, contact information, and more for users. Your listing will be available to anyone with access to Google.

Any business owner can access Google My Business, but with a catch. You must have some form of in-person interaction with customers to qualify. You can obtain your GMB listing up to ninety days before opening your business. Maintain it by keeping a physical location open. Online-only businesses are not eligible.

Why Is Google My Business Useful?

GMB listings provide vital information for customers to learn about your business. It is an invaluable tool when it comes to marketing.

This service is also handy for improving local SEO. But what is local SEO, and why is it important?

First, understand what SEO is. The acronym stands for search engine optimization. It is essential for helping your online presence rank well. The higher you rank, the more customers you reach. The goal is for your company to appear on the first page of results when a user searches a relevant keyword.

Local SEO aims to grow your local presence. It will help you expand your business within your local geographic community. You want people within your region to find you online with ease. Soon, this will draw in business.

Tackling SEO can seem like a daunting task. Local SEO services like Google My Business help make it easier.

How To Get Started

Getting started with Google My Business is simple to do. The first step is creating a Google account for your brand. This account should be separate from any personal ones.

Once you have an account, find the Google My Business website. Sign in to your business account and follow the instructions to create a listing. GMB will walk you through these steps.

Finally, you will have to authenticate your business and claim the listing. Afterward, your GMB listing is available to the public. Keep it up to date so that customers have current information.

If your business has an auto-generated listing, you need to claim it and verify it’s yours.