Companies have the ability, at no additional expense, to take control of their exposure across Google services such as Search and Maps by utilising Google My Business, or GMB. Raising a company’s profile in searches that are pertinent to a geographic area is an important component of local SEO. Increasing the visibility and credibility of your Google My Business listing in the results of local searches can result in an increase in the number of visits and customers you receive.

What is Google My Business?

Google My Business has just been renamed Google Business Profile. Google My Business, now Google Business Profile, is still the core for managing your company’s search results. This tool is essential for managing your company’s exposure on Google’s Maps, Knowledge Graph, and organic search results. Google My Business is still the most essential local SEO element, followed by reviews, according to Whitespark’s newest Local Search Ranking Factors Survey.

NAP, working hours, photos, etc. may manage your company’s listing. Special options show different buying options (delivery or curbside pickup). Moderating customer input is one of several customization choices. As you know, local SEO requires reviews.

How does it work?

Using Google Business Profile for the first time is straightforward; all you have to do is establish an account and define your firm before you can get started. After you’ve provided the necessary information, Google will send a real postcard to the address you provided in the form. The card will be issued to you in order to verify that you are the legitimate owner of the business at the specified address. There are several fields in which confirmations can be obtained through email or over the phone. On a page devoted to the purpose, you may check to see if Google has validated your account.

You will be able to edit the information associated with your listing as soon as your account has been verified. On a regular basis, you will be able to check the number of views, clicks, and subscriptions that your listing has received. You will gain a lot of insight into how Google and customers think of your business if you approach it in this manner.

Keep in mind that Google My Business, also known as a Google Business Profile, is not the silver bullet for your local search engine optimization. It is necessary for it to compliment the other on-page and off-page SEO measures that you have taken. You generally won’t climb in the rankings if the information on your profile is inaccurate, but you also won’t get there without a site that’s been adequately optimised and material that’s been localised. They cannot exist without the other and cannot be separated.

The Key to Local SEO

If you operate a legal storefront or online business, you have the ability to build a Google Business listing for your company. What should you do, though, if you run a business out of your house and would prefer that no one know where it is that you are located?

Service businesses are ones that do not have a storefront but instead travel to their customers in order to provide their products or services. Service organisations include construction companies that go above and above for their clients by providing additional services. There is still time for you to submit your information in order to be considered for inclusion in this directory. However, when Google asks what kind of business you run, pick “Service business.” from the drop-down menu.

Here are a few methods to optimise your GMB listing:

• If you want to manage the information that displays in search results, you need to take charge of your Google My Business listing and get it verified.
• Make sure to fill out every part of your ad: Give as much detail as you can about your company, including its location, contact information, operating hours, and offerings.
• Increase your listing’s appeal by uploading high-quality images and videos of your company’s offerings to Google My Business.
• You may increase your GMB listing’s exposure and trustworthiness by asking happy customers to submit reviews.
• Monitor and reply to reviews: Monitor your GMB reviews and answer to them immediately, since this may assist to preserve a favourable reputation for your business.
• Maintain a current listing: Changes to your company hours or services offered should be included in your GMB listing as soon as possible.

The more prominent and trustworthy your business appears in local search results, the more potential clients will find you through Google Maps.

FAQ’s about Local SEO with Google My Business

1. Is Google My Business worth the effort for local SEO?

If you’re just getting started with SEO for your company, Google My Business is a fantastic resource.

• Does updating Google My Business Help SEO?

Yes. Validated and optimised Google My Business profiles may boost your website’s search engine rankings and raise the probability of appearing in the local 3-pack.

Conclusion

As a result, create a Google My Business account and use it often. To maximise listings and rank well, your website must be in good condition. Fine-tune everything. Create local content for a keyword and location and get high-quality local backlinks to strengthen your link profile. Ask customers for My Business and in-store reviews. Never lie on your profile.