Your online presence is a determining factor in the success of your business.
Aside from building a company website, there are other things you can do to establish your brand on the internet. A GMB listing is a great avenue to let people know that your business exists.
Advanced Digital Media Services is your partner in the digital world. We have a dedicated team whose focus is on giving other businesses the online presence they deserve. Our team knows what to do to have a thriving business through Google My Business listing.
What Is Google Business Listing?
Remember, the goal is to gain a broader audience on the internet. One way to do so is to create a listing on Google My Business. Understand that Google My Business is different from the business profile itself.
Google My Business is a free tool that allows business owners to manage and optimize their business profiles on Google. A business profile is a term Google uses for your Google My Business listing. It is the one that appears on Google Maps and search results.
Anyone can create a business profile, even if they’re not the owner. The information Google requires in creating a business profile is the following:
- Business Name
- Location
- Category
Once Google verifies that there’s no duplicate, it creates a business profile for that specific location. The Google My Business listing is open to all customers. They can leave reviews, ask and answer questions, and upload photos. Additionally, your listing may also get more information when Google crawls the web.
How to Claim a GMB Listing?
Creating your business profile doesn’t necessarily mean that you have complete control over posted details. You need to create a Google My Business account. Easily access, manage, and edit your Google My Business listing through your account.
Claiming your business profile on Google only takes a few, quick steps and this will give you complete control over the details in your business profile. Here’s the answer to your question, “how to claim a GMB listing?”:
1. Search for Your Business on Google Maps.
If you created a Google My Business listing of your business, you could click on the link in the confirmation email sent to you. If a listing already exists, go to Google Maps and search for your business.
2. Click on “Claim This Business.”
You’ll see the menu options on the left side of the map. Select “claim this business” and put in the information needed. From there, change the business name and any other erroneous details on the Google My Business listing.
3. Complete the Fields and Verify.
If the listing already exists and you’re claiming it as your own, there are verification measures you have to follow. On the other hand, if you created it from scratch, it’s easier to claim the business as yours.
What Are the Do’s and Don’ts in Your Google My Business Listing?
Now that you know the answer to “what is a Google business listing?” there are things you should and shouldn’t do when creating your business profile. Knowing the do’s and don’ts guarantees that you’re getting the most out of your Google My Business listing. Here are the things to keep in mind:
1. DON’T put keywords in your business name.
It may be tempting to add a keyword or a specific location in your business name, but we suggest that you don’t do it. Putting keywords may give you a boost from Google rankings. However, when Google finds out about this, you may find yourself starting all over again.
2. DO complete all fields of your Google My Business listing.
All the information in your GMB listing should be complete and accurate. Google uses the information to show the right results to users who search for the products or services you provide.
3. DON’T use fake locations when creating your Google My Business listing.
Google has a clear set of website policies. The address you provide should exist, and there should be personnel available during the indicated business hours. Using fake locations will have your Google My Business account suspended.
Do not put the following:
- A virtual office
- Name of a more prominent location where your office isn’t located
- An address with no staff available
4. DO get reviews from your clients.
A single, positive review can turn your business around (the same goes for negative reviews). Don’t hesitate to ask your customers or clients to leave a review on Google after you’ve provided them a product or service.
5. DON’T delay uploading photos of your business.
For a successful Google My Business listing, upload photos of your business once you finish setting up your GMB account. If there are no photos, Google will use the Google Maps street view instead. People might hesitate to visit, call, or click on your business when there’s no solid proof that your business exists.
Advanced Digital Media Services Is Here To Guide You
Our team understands the importance of a Google My Business listing.
If you need help in setting up your GMB account, we’re here to help. ADMS provides Google My Business setup and posting services. We can also help you upgrade your website. Book a call with us today, and we’ll see how we can boost your online presence.
