Google My Business is a simple tool that enables users to list the locations of their businesses on Google Maps on the Web platform of Google Maps and with local searches. It’s incredibly useful because it displays all the information that potential customers are likely to need about an entrepreneurial venture, from its opening and closing times and contact details to its website link. Best of all, it’s free, and in this post, we’ll cover the most important reasons why it’s essential to local search engine optimization or SEO.
- It creates an excellent first impression
Having a Google My Business page adds digitally savvy touches to a business’s online branding because it shows consumers that you’re more than willing to stay modern and updated. In other words, it installs confidence in them that you can cater to their virtual needs so that they can immediately get in touch with you, make purchases, or address any inquiries they may have.
Through GMB, you can captivate users visually with images and video content of the store or its products, setting clear expectations on what they can expect by doing business with you. And this is essential when you consider that there are strong links between search performance and the number of photos on the tool.
- It improves online visibility
An optimized and verified GMB profile can give businesses a much better odds at elevating their online presence by helping them rank high on the SERPs or search engine results pages. It accomplishes this feat by providing social signals to Google, driving more traffic to its online domain, and providing more social proof to support its offerings via reviews.
Through the three factors that Google itself claims the search results to be based on – distance, relevance, and prominence – Google My Business generates a lot more internet exposure for a brand or company than it otherwise would have. And when paired with the expertise of an SEO Los Angeles agency for those businesses located in the city, it can elevate leads and conversions.
- It guides customers to a business via a map
Decades ago, the vast majority relied on printed maps to locate the desired businesses. However, nowadays, nearly everyone uses apps like Google Maps on their smartphones to guide them to where they want to go. With Google My Business (GMB), you can display your address for users to see. And with a single click, they can immediately get directions on how to get to your place of business.
- It enables businesses to communicate with customers
Communication is another advantage that Google My Business offers. With the tool, it’s possible to establish dialogues with existing and prospective customers alike. For example, when people leave reviews, it allows you to respond to their feedback, whether it’s thanking them for positive testimonials or addressing any concerns they have.
This is a lot more vital than you might think because reviews won’t just allow you to gain invaluable insight into how people perceive your business. It can also affect your search engine optimization efforts. Therefore, you’ll want to use GMB as it will support the efforts of your Los Angeles SEO company if you’re within the vicinity.
- It’s the future of digital marketing
As Google constantly evolves and grows, both businesses and consumers will have more online features to work with. They already have a plethora of digital tools to help companies and brands create awareness on their offerings, and Google My Business is the next step. Simply put, it’s a part of digital marketing’s future.
Conclusion
Having a Google My Business page is the first step into a lucrative future. But make no mistake: it’s still a tool at the end of the day. To get the most out of it, you must optimize your profile and ensure that it’s updated regularly.