The Different Advantages of Google My Business
After Google discontinued its Google+ service, the search giant has invested more time and effort in new ways to provide businesses different options to expand their visibility via its platform. To this end, Google My Business was launched and is especially useful and small and local businesses.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business, or GMB, is a free-to-use tool that allows business owners to promote their business profile and website on Google's Maps and Search platforms. Businesses that have a GMB account can view and connect with customers, update their business profile, and understand how their typical customer interacts with Google.
This is Why Local Organizations Should Use Google My Business
GMB provides multiple different means for your business to interact and engage with your customers or potential customers that may be searching for your business or the services or products you offer.
According to a recent study, small businesses should use Google My Business because -
- 4 out of 5 customers use search engines for looking for local information.
- 85% of people view and trust online reviews as being similar to personal recommendations.
- 70% of customers complete an in-store purchase after an online search.
Google My Business' Tools for Success
A Business Website
Though some local businesses may already have a business website, GMB allows them the opportunity to create a website that complements the one they may already have. This GMB website works to increase the visibility of your business on Google Search and Maps.
The free-to-use builder pre-populates your website with information entered in your GMB account. Users have the option to choose design templates, add images and include business updates and additional information to further customize the website.
A Detailed Dashboard
Business owners can view useful information and metrics about their business via a detailed, real-time dashboard. Information includes customer photos, company updates, online performance, customer reviews, etc. All of this proves helpful when determining the digital marketing strategy for your business.
Customer Insights
Google My Business also gives owners visibility into how their customers are using Google Maps and Search to find their business or other local listings that offer the same products or services. GMB also provides insights into the number of click-throughs you received for your website, the number of times your business was called, etc.
Google My Business Posts
Though called 'Posts', these are not to be confused with social media posts. Google My Business posts refer to those that are viewed on your GMB listing during a search or on your GMB website. Businesses find this to be a good way to focus the spotlight on their business at the exact time that a user is searching for their business or the products or services they offer.
Customer Engagement
Google My Business is a great way for businesses and customers to engage with one another. Customers that view a business listing can call, message or leave a comment or review for a business. This provides businesses with more avenues through which their customers can reach them and provides them with opportunities to conduct more business.
Still unconvinced? Many case studies have showcased how Google My Business has been the key difference-maker in competitive markets and industries. Organizations use GMB to optimize their local business and get ahead of the competition.
As a business, it is important to be in the right place at the right time. In other words, to be where your customers are searching, when they are searching. If not you, your customers may find your competition.
If you need help setting up your Google My Business account or are still not sure about why and how GMB can be useful for your business, leave us a comment and we will reach out to you.