We like to keep things short and sweet here at Yopp, so this article is why Google Business is a must for your business if you want to compete in local search and gain confidence and build up trust in your local area.
Google Business Profile (previously known as Google My Business) is an essential tool for businesses, especially those with a physical location or that serve customers within a specific locality. For example, if you are a driveway company in Banbury Oxford and someone in the Banbury area is searching driveway terms, then you would want to be displayed in the search results like our client below.
Now, see how they rank number 1 for their location putting them in the hot seat to get lots of traffic coming to their website from mobile and tablets which now account for nearly 80% of all Google search. So, if you are not pushing your Google Business profile then you are definitely losing out a huge share of potential business.
Let’s break down its importance and the benefits associated with getting found for local search:
Local Search Visibility
Google Business Profile ensures that when potential customers search for services or products you offer in your locality, your business appears in local search results. This can be both in the regular search results and the “Local Pack” (the map with three business listings below it).
Trust and Credibility
Profiles provide crucial information such as business hours, address, and phone number. Reviews and ratings further enhance trust. A well-maintained profile indicates a reputable and active business.
Mobile Search Importance
With the increasing number of mobile searches, local search becomes even more crucial. Google Business Profile is optimized for mobile devices. This ensures that when someone is searching for a product or service nearby while on the move, your business gets showcased prominently if relevant.
Maps Integration
The integration with Google Maps means that people can find directions to your location effortlessly. It makes it easier for customers to visit you, potentially driving more foot traffic.
Insights and Analysis
Google provides insights on how customers searched for your business, where those customers are coming from, and what actions they’re taking (e.g., calling your business, visiting your website). This data is invaluable for refining your local marketing strategies.
Engagement
Google Business Profile allows you to post updates, offers, events, and more. These posts can engage potential customers and inform them about what’s new or upcoming in your business.
Photographs and Virtual Tours
You can add photographs and even virtual tours to your profile. This visual content can provide potential customers with a better understanding of what to expect, enhancing their overall experience.
Review Management
Customers can leave reviews on your Google Business Profile. Engaging with these reviews, both positive and negative, shows that you value feedback and customer service. The overall rating can also heavily influence potential customers.
Free Marketing
While there are advanced, paid local advertising options available (like Google Ads), the basic listing in Google Business Profile is free. This provides a cost-effective way for local businesses to increase their online visibility.
Integration with Other Google Services
The information from your Google Business Profile can appear in other Google services like Google Shopping, Google Ads, and more. This integrated ecosystem enhances the overall presence and reach of your business.
In summary, a Google Business Profile significantly boosts a business’s visibility in local search results, driving more customers to your website or physical location. In today’s digital age, where the majority of consumers start their buying journey online, having a robust online presence, especially for local search, is not just beneficial but crucial.
If you are a local business looking to get ahead online in the UK then speak to our team today, Yopp Websites have been the leaders in pay monthly websites for small businesses for over 12 years and we know how to help your small business find it’s way in the digital world.
