If you’re a small business owner in the UK, you’ll know that visibility really is king. If you’re shown instantly when they’re searching, you may as well not exist.
That’s where Google My Business (GMB) comes in. It’s arguably one of the most powerful aids for generating local leads. We’ve noticed that a huge amount of businesses either aren’t using GMB at all, or aren’t using it to its full potential.
So, here’s redrose.digital’s quick guide to Google My Business, how to use it and why it matters for your business.
What is Google My Business, and why does it matter?
GMB is Google’s free tool for companies to display their businesses across local search results and their location on Google Maps.
Say someone searches for a service like “plumber near me”. Google will display listings, and the ones at the top of the page are (usually) pulled from GMB. So, when someone in your area looks for your service, GMB can show you to them straight away: making this one of the most visible and effective methods for local SEO, easily.
Unlike more traditional marketing campaigns (which can take time and budget) to get results, GMB gives a quicker route to visibility. Once you’re verified, you can appear in Google’s local lead services—a section for properly verified, trusted companies.
For trade and micro-businesses, local visibility really matters. A well-optimised and regularly updated GMB profile puts you smack dab in front of the people in your area or target audience who are ready to convert.
That said, Google doesn’t just look at one thing when it decides which businesses to show first. Reviews definitely help, but they sit alongside plenty of other signals. Keeping your profile fresh, double-checking your details, and posting the odd update all tell Google you’re active and worth showing to more people.
And don’t forget your website. Even with a solid GMB profile, a slow or confusing site can make someone click away before they ever get in touch.
Setting up your Google My Business profile
So, how do you get your GMB set up to show off your business to your customers? The first step is claiming your profile and showing Google that you’re a legitimate business.
The process is pretty straightforward: Google usually posts a code straight to your address, or sometimes sends text/email confirmation.
Once you’re up and running, it’s important to keep your profile in really good condition. Things like opening hours and contact details make sure your customers know how to get in touch. Upload photos of your team/your work and even photos of your actual building, if you can. It all builds trust with your audience, helping them see who you are. It’s also actually beneficial for local SEO, since profiles that are regularly updated and checked benefit from better visibility.
All in all, GMB is a fantastic opportunity to start instantly generating visibility and leads, more or less at the click of a few buttons.
Our expert tips for getting more out of Google My Business
Just having your profile up is a great start to local SEO. But to really make GMB work for you, here are our team’s top tips and Google Business best practices.
Reviews and customer interactions boost rankings
Actual customer reviews are one of the strongest signals Google uses in deciding which businesses get that prized position at the top of search results. Essentially, the more (positive) reviews you get, the higher you’re likely to appear.
If you can, encouraging customers to leave a review after each job or service is a great way to grow this organically.
Use GMB for direct communication with your customers
Google My Business has built-in tools that let you speak to your customers directly, including calls and messages. So, for example, if your customer Googles your service on their phone, they may see a button to directly call you from your listing, or send you a message right then and there.
Responding quickly is, obviously, a great way to win more business, but it’s also a sign to Google that your profile is active and that you’re a reliable contact.
Post offers and regular updates
Use the ‘posts’ feature to share updates, local news, and (if possible) special offers. Seasonal promotions or helpful tips are great to show online searchers that you’ll add more value than your competitors.
Get expert help to boost your local SEO
Clearly, Google My Business is a convenient and powerful way to attract local customers to your business. At Redrose, we specialise in optimising profiles, growing local SEO for micro-businesses and trades, and building strong digital performance.
Get in touch with redrose.digital to start getting noticed, today.