For small business owners, having an online presence isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. With more than 90% of internet traffic coming from Google, customers are searching for your business on the platform, whether you’re prepared or not. The good news? Google My Business (GMB) is the tool you need to help your business stand out, drive traffic, and attract more customers.
This guide will walk you through what Google My Business is, how to set it up effectively, and how to optimize it for maximum results.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence on Google Search and Google Maps. When customers search for your business or related keywords, your GMB listing helps you appear front and center with critical information—like your address, hours, photos, reviews, and more.
Imagine walking down the street and seeing a restaurant with a welcoming sign and glowing reviews—it catches your eye and you’re inclined to step inside. Google My Business is the digital version of that. It gives potential customers a snapshot of what your business has to offer and invites them to engage.
Why Your Business Needs Google My Business
If you’re still wondering whether it’s worth investing your time into setting up a Google My Business profile, here are some compelling reasons to convince you:
1. Improved Local Visibility
Did you know? Nearly 46% of Google searches seek local information. GMB plays a critical role in making your business discoverable in local searches, particularly those with high intent (e.g., “best pizza near me” or “car mechanic open now”).
2. Build Trust with Customers
Listings with complete, accurate, and helpful information convey professionalism and credibility. Customers are more likely to trust and visit businesses that appear polished and legitimate.
3. Boost SEO Performance
Your GMB profile improves your local SEO by signaling to Google that your business is relevant to searches in your geographical area. Optimizing your profile can increase your chances of showing up in the coveted “Local Pack”—the top three results displayed with a map.
4. Encourage Customer Engagement
With features like customer reviews, FAQs, Q&A, and direct messaging, GMB provides multiple avenues for you and your audience to communicate effortlessly in real time.
5. Measure Performance with Analytics
Track how customers interact with your features using free insights. GMB provides data on how often people find your listing, click to call you, request directions, and more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Google My Business
Your business deserves to shine online, and a well-set-up GMB profile is key. Here’s how to create yours in just a few simple steps:
1. Claim or Create Your Listing
Start by visiting the Google My Business webpage. If your business already exists on Google, you can claim it by verifying information. Otherwise, click ‘Add Business’ and start from scratch.
2. Complete Your Profile Information
Google prioritizes complete and accurate profiles, so make sure to fill out every field. This includes:
- Business name (exactly as it appears in real life)
- Categories (start with your primary category, but feel free to add more)
- Phone number and website URL
- Business location
- Service areas (important for businesses without a physical storefront)
3. Add High-Quality Photos
Did you know that businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions? Include professional, engaging photos that showcase your space, products, and services.
4. Verify Your Business
Google will likely ask you to verify your business to ensure authenticity. Verification can usually be done through a postal mail postcard, phone call, or email.
5. Optimize Your Listing
This is where the magic happens. We’ll discuss optimization in the next section!
How to Optimize Google My Business for Maximum Results
Setting up a GMB profile is just the beginning. The real value lies in optimizing your listing to ensure it works harder for your business:
1. Use Keywords Naturally
Think about the search terms your potential customers might use to find a business like yours. Incorporate these keywords into your business description, FAQs, and updates. Don’t overstuff—natural phrasing is key.
2. Keep Your Information Updated
A customer arriving at your store only to find it closed because of outdated hours is likely to leave disappointed—and they might share that disappointment online. Regularly update your hours, special holiday times, address, and phone number.
3. Ask for and Respond to Reviews
Reviews are a powerful factor in customer decision-making. Don’t be shy about asking happy customers to leave you a review! Proactively respond to all reviews—positive or negative—to show that you value feedback and care about customer experience.
4. Leverage GMB Posts
GMB allows you to publish posts to your listing, such as updates about sales, events, or new products. These posts are a great way to keep your audience informed and engaged.
5. Utilize the Question & Answer Feature
Take advantage of the Q&A feature by answering common customer questions. If there are none yet, you can even populate frequently asked questions yourself.
6. Upload Video Content
Stand out from competitors by including short, captivating videos that highlight your products, team, or customer’s testimonials.
7. Analyze Insights Regularly
Use the data from GMB Insights to see how customers are finding you and interacting with your business. Adjust your strategy based on this feedback.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Google My Business
Even with the best of intentions, there are mistakes you’ll want to avoid to maximize the potential of your GMB listing:
- Using Incorrect Business Categories – Always select categories that genuinely reflect what your business offers.
- Ignoring Reviews – Failing to respond to reviews (especially negative ones) creates a poor impression for potential customers.
- Incomplete or Outdated Profiles – Ensure all business information is accurate and updated often.
- Neglecting Posts or Q&A – Don’t leave these features empty—use them to your advantage.
- Not Checking Verification Status – Without verification, your profile won’t show in search or maps.
Take Your Local Visibility to the Next Level
Your Google My Business profile is often the first impression potential customers will have of your business—make it count. By optimizing your listing with accurate details, enticing photos, and engaging updates, you’ll position your business as the go-to choice in your community.
Want to see even greater results? Regularly update your profile and pay attention to customer feedback. Local SEO is a long game with significant payoffs, and GMB is your strongest ally in winning it.
Start Today
Don’t leave your online presence to chance. Head over to the Google My Business page and ensure your listing is working for your business—starting today.
FAQs
What is Google My Business (GMB)?
Google My Business is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence on Google Search and Maps. It helps customers find your business, learn about your offerings, and engage with you directly.
Why is GMB important for my business?
GMB improves your local visibility, making it easier for potential customers to find you. A well-optimized profile can boost your trustworthiness, provide key business information, and encourage customers to choose your business over competitors.
How often should I update my GMB profile?
It’s recommended to update your profile regularly. Adding new photos, responding to reviews, and posting updates or offers keeps your profile fresh and engaging, which can improve your rankings and attract more customers.
What photos should I upload to my GMB listing?
High-quality photos of your business location, products, services, and team are ideal. These images help potential customers visualize your offerings and build trust in your brand.
Can I manage multiple locations with GMB?
Yes, with GMB you can manage multiple business locations through one account. This is especially useful for franchises or businesses with several branches, allowing for consistent information across all locations.
