Undoubtedly, you must have heard about Google, the most popular and operated search engine. So, if you are someone, who is just getting started with their business or already have an SME, then Google My Business is the perfect place to put your efforts. After all, most searches begin and end with Google. Also, people usually search for a product or service when they are seriously in the mood to purchase.

Don’t believe us? There is research reflecting that around 50% of consumers visit a store or business the day they perform a local search.

With a GMB account, you show up on the result page when people search for you online. It lets you manage your presence on Google searches and maps. Further, Google My Business free and is an easy-to-use tool that makes it affordable for all SMEs.

Now you may be thinking about why you need a Google Business page when you are running a typical brick-and-mortar shop. Well, your potential audience and customers are online. And that’s where they will start their search.

GMB will provide details that can make it easier for your consumer to contact you. Plus, it improves your local SEO to make you show up on page one. Next, it boosts your consumer confidence as with a Google presence you show yourself reliable. There is a 70% more chance you will get customers with a Google My Business listing. These are some of the many benefits of Google my business.

How to set up a Google My Business account?

1. Log in to the Google account with the address you want to associate with your business.

2. Next, Go to Google.com/business and select “Start now” in the top right-hand corner, and enter your business details there- name and category.

3. Now, you have to enter your location. If you have a physical location, then enter your address. However, if you don’t have a physical store, but do deliver products or provide service, you can then list your area of service.

4. Moving on, enter your contact information- phone number, website address, or social media address.
5. Lastly, you can finish your Google my listing after choosing a verification option. If you are not ready to verify as of yet, you can try a different method.

How to optimize your Google My Business Profile?

1. First, make use of photos, to show potential prospects what you are all about. Instead of adding just your logo or cover photo, you can add other images which reflect your location, products, or something else that poses you as a unique kind of business, people should connect with. For instance, if you are running a restaurant, post appealing pictures of the menu, meals, dining area, etc.

2. Second, on Google My Business profile, you can post information to update your customers on new offers, information, and products. This will remind the customers about your business, drive sales, and encourage visits to your physical store.

3. A review plays a pretty important role in increasing your business credibility. People trust what other people say about your business. Good reviews can push potential customers towards you and also enhance your Google ranking. So, after providing your customers a great experience, you can ask them to write a review for you on Google.

4. It would also be great if you respond to your customer review. According to a survey, businesses that respond to their customer review are 1.7 times more trusted. So, build brand loyalty and brand advocates by taking some time out to tell your customers how much you appreciate their feedback.

So, without wasting any time, go ahead and set your Google My Business profile. And if you have one, follow these simple tips to optimize it for better results. Altogether, a Google My Business account should be a must-have in your business pocket.