There are many businesses ignoring their Google Business Profile. Google is still the world’s most-visited website. The site currently holds more than 92 percent of the search engine market share. It’s the first place people go to find out information on your business. What type of message are you sending if all your info is outdated or just plain wrong?
If you have a shop, store, restaurant, or small business, you need a Google Business Profile. Set it up now. If you set it up more than six months ago, you need to go and manage it now. Things have changed.
Your Google Business Profile shows up on Google searches as well as Google Maps. It’s your one-stop spot where customers can find info about your business, hours, specials, discounts, photos, reviews and more.
According to Google, potential customers are 2.7 times more likely to trust your company if you have a complete profile. It will also make it easier for Google to match your business with the right searches.
Google uses the information in your profile to determine your search ranking. This is based on relevance, distance, and reputation. The more information Google has, the better your score.
Keep in mind the proper keywords when filling out your description. If you’re having trouble, visit Google Trends or Keyword Planner. Use discretion here - - you don’t want to use all the keywords. Too many will cause your ranking to drop and thus fewer search results. Find one or two keywords and gently weave them into your company’s description.
Do not skip out on updating your profile. And don’t set it and forget it; that’s a mistake.
If you own a retail store, update your page with discounts and promotions. If you own a restaurant, update your menu, and let customers know about upcoming events. The more you update your profile, the more Google will trust your company and elevate your Google ranking. Current photos and videos can also show customers that you have what they are looking for.
Respond to Reviews (Good and Bad)
Responding to reviews can elevate your business’ visibility and show that you openly engage with your clients, which will build trust in your brand. According to a survey by Google, customers are 1.7 times more likely to trust a business that responds to reviews.
This can also be an opportunity to address customer concerns and invite them back to your business. If someone had a negative experience, be upfront and address their concerns. Maybe even invite them back with a special or discount.
Get in the practice of asking customers to leave a review. Send them an email or text and then include a link inviting them to highlight their experience. The more reviews you receive and respond to, the better your Google score will be.
A word of warning: Don’t use spam tactics or fake reviews. Google is very good at identifying them and may completely erase your profile.
It’s okay to get negative reviews. Customers are more likely to trust a business with an average rating of 4.2 - 4.5 than a 5. No business is perfect. A perfect score will raise suspicions.
Take Advantage of the Features
Google has built in some pretty effective tools. Make sure to alert customers of events, promotions, new products, and social posts. This is also a great way to share blogs.
The key is updating regularly. Remember, Google runs the search world. Make sure you are being found.
About Maria Novak Dugan
Maria L. Novak Dugan is president of Marketing Solutions & Business Development, a firm serving Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, offering creative marketing services and goal implementation for small businesses. She has more than 30 years’ experience in the Marketing & Sales Industry ... 13 of those as the sole sales representative for a Pennsylvania payroll company growing their client base by over 500%. Maria Novak Dugan is also the former Managing Director of the Delaware Chapter of eWomenNetwork. Creating, developing, and conducting this division of a national organization strengthened her knowledge of networking, event planning, fundraising, and small-business development. For more information, contact Maria at 610-405-0633 or [email protected] or visit www.Maria-L-Novak.com
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