The power of local listings can’t be ignored. If you own a business, you should have a Google Business Profile, to be sure. But that’s not enough – it has to be up-to-date and accurate in order to be effective. Not only does this profile help you increase visibility on Google, it helps you gain credibility with reviews while controlling your business information.
Previously known as Google My Business, Google Business Profile is a free service that allows you to list your business so people can find you on Google Search and Maps. You can further personalize your profile by adding posts, photos, and offers. It’s easy to do and comes with these key benefits.
Google Business Profile:
- Promotes the visibility of your business (listings get priority on the first page of local search results).
- Displays useful, correct information about your company.
- Results in a positive first impression.
- Improves SEO.
- Helps you engage and respond to customer reviews.
- Is part of your Google Profile, including Maps and Ads.
- Helps you gain customer insight and use it to improve your business.
- Is yet another online communication channel that you can use to your advantage.
It makes sense to maintain your standing on Google Business Profile seeing that Google still resigns supreme, claiming nearly 92 percent of the search engine market share.
Why an Accurate Profile is Critical to Your Business
From appearance in Local Pack listings to high visibility, there are many reasons why you can’t neglect your Google Business Profile. With this profile, you can:
Appear in Maps and Local Pack Listings
No doubt you’ve noticed the list of business names appearing at the top of the page when you search for places near you. This is coveted real estate on page one of the Google search results, and displays not only the places related to a search but includes other relevant information as well, such as map location, contact information, store hours, and star ratings.
Moz says Google Business Profile is the most significant determining factor of Google local pack rankings, so pay close attention to its quality. Be sure to set it up correctly, proofread your work, and make sure there are no typos or inconsistencies.
Encourage Reviews of Your Business
The power of customer reviews cannot be understated. More than 99 percent of consumers read reviews online, with 96 percent of them looking for negative reviews specifically. To ensure your business is visible in the search results, use Google Business Profile as a tool to ensure it’s easy for your customers to leave positive feedback about you.
Gather Helpful Information
As a value-driver for your Google rankings, Google Business Profile will promote your product or service, of course, but it will also help you understand the market as a whole. Use its powerful features to your advantage and gain insights into ways you can create more robust and effective strategies in rounding out your online marketing plan.
Contact Detroit Internet Marketing
Don’t have the time to set up and monitor your Google Business Profile? No worries. Let the pros at Detroit Internet Marketing handle setup and posting. Schedule an appointment with us now at (248) 234-4830.
