In today’s digital world, using Google My Business (GMB) is key for local businesses to do well. GMB is vital because it makes a business more visible in local searches. By using GMB well, a company can connect with local customers when they look for what it offers. This leads to more people noticing the business and choosing to engage with it.

Being active on Google My Business is critical for local businesses. 86% of consumers use the internet to find local options. And, 46% of Google searches look for local details. Having a strong GMB profile is very important. Plus, 70% of consumers prefer to visit businesses with photos on their GMB page. This shows why a business should work on their profile and content.

Surprisingly, many local businesses, about 32%, haven’t taken their Google My Business listing seriously. But making regular posts with rich media like images and videos can boost brand awareness by 50%. This helps drive more local customers to make in-person purchases after their searches.

Key Takeaways

• 86% of consumers use online searches to find local businesses.
• 46% of Google searches are seeking local information.
• 70% of consumers prefer businesses with photos on their GMB profiles.
• Posting photos on GMB can increase brand awareness by up to 50%.
• Only 32% of local businesses have claimed their Google My Business listing.

Introduction to Google My Business and Local SEO

Local SEO boosts visibility for local businesses in online searches. It helps connect nearby customers with the products or services they need. By using Google My Business, local companies can ensure people find them easily. This leads to more customers and success for businesses in the local community.

Understanding Local SEO

Local SEO aims to attract customers living close by. Nearly 100% of people look up local businesses online. And almost a third make a purchase after a local search. This is why it’s key to focus on local search terms and keep business details up to date.

Google My Business is at the heart of local SEO. It shows key info like addresses, phone numbers, and opening hours. With this, businesses can appear on Google Maps. It ranks as the second most crucial marketing tool, right after a website, for local success. A strong GMB profile can even help a business appear in the top three search results, bringing more clicks and sales.

Benefits of Google My Business (GMB)

For a strong local presence, businesses must use GMB well. Companies with complete GMB profiles get more visits and sales. Plus, by responding to reviews and answering questions, they can boost their local ranking.

GMB profiles give insights into how customers interact with a business listing. This information helps refine marketing. Interacting with customers on GMB can improve their satisfaction and loyalty.

Google My Business posts can act like ads, keeping local customers updated on the latest news and deals.

Keeping a GMB profile current is important for good user experience and SEO. Surprisingly, only a small percentage of businesses regularly share content on it. This means there’s a big chance to stand out by using GMB well.

Posting updates on GMB lets customers know a business is active. This is especially key post-pandemic. It shows a company is open and engaged, which can attract more customers.

Setting Up and Optimizing Your GMB Profile

Starting to boost your Google My Business (GMB) profile involves setting it up right. Your business Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) are key for trust. A study from BrightLocal shows an average of 1,260 views for a Business Profile each month. But, less than 5% of these people actually click, underscoring the need to optimize your profile for better results.

Essential Elements of a GMB Improvement

If your business, like Fresh Express or Amelia’s Catering, doesn’t show what it does in the name, choose a clear category. Most views on Business Profiles come from people searching for something specific. Google has features that can highlight what you do, making your profile more appealing. Always make sure your NAP info is correct, and add great pictures or videos. Keeping your info the same on all platforms helps Google trust your business more. And a complete profile makes your business almost three times more noticeable in search results.

Advanced GMB Features

Using Google Posts and other tools can also enhance your GMB profile. Make sure you write a detailed 750-word custom description with key words to help people find you in local searches. Google trusts profiles with a variety of reviews, not all positive. But of course, more good reviews are better for your business. Sharing your correct hours of operation shows customers when you’re open. This boosts trust and improves their experience. And now, many customers search for businesses like yours without clicking, just by looking at your GMB profile. So, having a well-optimized profile is crucial for pulling in more customers and staying on top.