Two weekends ago, I decided to visit a new restaurant in my city. They didn’t have a website, just social media pages on Facebook and Instagram, and I got lost trying to locate the venue, because they were not listed on google maps. Now, this is 2023, being listed on Google Maps is crucial for increasing your small business’s online visibility and attracting local customers. By adding your business to Google Maps, you ensure that it appears in search results and on the map itself. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to add your small business to Google Maps effectively.
Start by creating a Google My Business account at google.com/business. Sign in with your Google account or create a new one if you don’t have one already. This account will serve as the central hub for managing your business’s presence on Google.
Once you’re logged in, click on “Add your business to Google” and provide accurate information about your business. Include your business name, address, phone number, website, category, and any other relevant details. Ensure that the information you provide is consistent with your other online listings.
To ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of your business listing, Google may require you to verify your ownership. You can choose to receive a verification code via mail at your business address, receive a phone call, or receive an email. Follow the verification instructions provided by Google to complete the process.
After verification, optimize your business profile by providing detailed and engaging information. Add high-quality photos of your business, including the logo, interior, exterior, and products/services. Write a compelling business description and include relevant keywords to help potential customers find you.
Encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google My Business profile. Positive reviews not only build trust but also improve your local search rankings. Monitor and respond to reviews promptly, whether they are positive or negative, to show your engagement and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Highlight additional attributes and services offered by your business. Depending on your industry, you can include information such as Wi-Fi availability, wheelchair accessibility, outdoor seating, or delivery options. These details help customers make informed decisions and improve your business’s visibility in relevant searches.
Keep your Google My Business listing up to date by updating your business hours, contact information, and any other changes. Monitor the performance of your listing through the Insights section of your account, which provides valuable data on how customers find and interact with your business.
Conclusion:
Adding your small business to Google Maps is a powerful way to increase your online presence and attract local customers, even if you do not have a website yet. By following these steps to create a Google My Business account, accurately provide your business details, optimize your profile, and actively manage your listing, you can maximize the visibility of your business on Google Maps. Stay engaged with customer reviews and regularly update your information to ensure your business thrives in the digital landscape. Want to open a website for your business too? Contact us here
