In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is essential for businesses, particularly those focused on serving local communities. Google My Business (GMB) and Google Search are two of the most powerful tools that can enhance visibility, credibility and engagement for localized businesses, helping them connect with nearby customers who are ready to take action. Here’s why these platforms are invaluable for growing your local business, whether it's brick-and-mortar or virtual, and how they can support your website’s success.
1. Get Found in Local Searches
When people search for services "near me" or "in [specific area]," Google Business Profile plays a crucial role in determining which businesses appear in local search results. The Google "Local Pack" (those top three results with a map at the top of the page) is prime real estate for local businesses, drawing attention and driving clicks. In an article on Birdeye, it mentions that 64% of businesses have verified their Google Business Profiles, which shows their validity and builds trust. Being included in these local search results is a powerful way to capture attention from high-intent customers.
2. Boost Your Visibility on Google Maps
Google Maps is one of the most widely used navigation apps, especially for people seeking businesses in their area. By optimizing your Google Business profile, you increase your chances of showing up on Google Maps, where customers can view your hours, read reviews, get directions, and quickly find your website. Per Statista, the largest percentage of people rely on Google Maps to locate a business, being easily discoverable here can significantly enhance your business’s reach in the local market.
3. Build Trust and Credibility with Reviews
Customer reviews are among the most trusted sources of information for people evaluating a new business. According to BrightLocal, 98% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses, and 91% say positive reviews make them more likely to use a business. Google My Business makes it simple for satisfied customers to leave reviews and for new customers to see your reputation firsthand. Responding to these reviews, both positive and negative, demonstrates your commitment to customer service and builds credibility with potential customers.
4. Showcase Your Business with Photos and Updates
Your Google Business profile is more than just basic business information. You can also add photos, videos, and updates to showcase your products, services, and unique atmosphere. Regularly posting photos and updates signals to Google that your business is active, which may positively impact your search ranking. Research shows that Google Business listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to their websites.
5. Gain Valuable Insights About Your Customers
Through Google Business and Google Search Console, you can access powerful insights about how customers find and interact with your business. Google Business provides data on search queries, how many people viewed your profile, and actions taken (like requests for directions or phone calls). This information allows you to understand which keywords and strategies work best and tailor your marketing efforts to meet the needs of your audience. Research indicates that businesses using data-driven insights are 23 times more likely to outperform competitors in customer acquisition source.
6. Enhance Website Traffic and Support SEO Efforts
An optimized Google Business profile is a valuable extension of your website. It acts as a bridge, drawing potential customers to your site to learn more or book a service. Google favors businesses with verified, active profiles, and integrating Google My Business with your website can improve your local search engine optimization (SEO), boosting your site’s ranking for local keywords. Research shows that 60% of smartphone users contacted a business directly using Google Business results (e.g., the "call" or "visit website" button), meaning an optimized profile can lead to direct conversions.
7. Encourage Direct Customer Engagement
Google My Business allows customers to take action directly from your profile, whether by calling, messaging, booking appointments, or visiting your website. This one-stop shop reduces barriers for customers, making it more likely they’ll connect with you. Additionally, 70% of customers are more likely to use a business with an accessible Google Business profile, meaning you can expect higher engagement with an optimized and active listing.
Getting Started with Google Business and Search Optimization
For localized businesses, an optimized Google Business profile and search strategy are essential. If you haven’t yet set up Google My Business, here’s a quick guide:
Claim and Verify Your Profile: Go through the verification process to ensure Google recognizes your business.
Complete Your Profile: Fill in every detail, including business name, address, phone, website, hours and relevant categories.
Upload High-Quality Photos: Showcase your brand’s personality by uploading high-quality images of your space, team and products.
Encourage Reviews: Request reviews from satisfied customers and respond to build rapport.
Post Regular Updates: Share photos, offers and news to keep your profile active.
Use Relevant Keywords: Use SEO-driven keywords that reflect your business in descriptions and posts.
There are many factors now in helping people find your business online, including AI, Apple Search and more, getting started by making the most of Google Business and Google Search can jumpstart your presence. Plus, it also allows you to do a push to re-index your website when you make changes and expedite the process of updating your business information online. By getting these tools in place, your business can reach more local customers, build trust and increase engagement both online and in-store (if applicable) - improving your visibility and driving meaningful interactions that support your bottom line.
Not sure where to start or need some help implementing Google Business Solutions? Contact us today for your free consultation.
At Second Life Careers & Solutions, our core values are Service, Loyalty & Compassion and the founder, Sarah Hannah is pursuing her passions and purpose in the support of others. Sarah is best-selling author and multi-passionate entrepreneur that pivots. She wants to work with you because she's passionate about helping you with where you are right now, embodying a spirit of boundless curiosity and diverse creative pursuits that define the essence of a modern-day Renaissance woman. She loves helping small businesses get visibility by creating a solid online presence through websites, google business solutions, creative content and SEO.
She is grateful to all her clients and colleagues for their trust and support in helping them with their businesses and would love to help you in support of your business, please feel free to reach out to her directly by clicking here.
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