In the past few years, Google My Business (GMB) has introduced a plethora of tools for small businesses to better promote themselves directly in the search results. In some ways GMB is a mixture of social media, SEO, customer service and a website all in one. However, with all the new tools comes the responsibility of keeping up and optimizing your efforts.
- Art 30%
Sharing videos and photos of your business, branding your listing, posting engaging content, etc.
- Science 70%
Optimizing your listing, creating FAQs, uploading valuable business information, responding to messages and reviews, etc.
GMB is the #1 ranking factor in the “local pack” search results.
Source: Moz
Claiming your GMB listing is no longer enough. Here’s what else you should be doing…
Optimization
From your website to your hours of operation, your GMB listing needs the most up-to-date info.
Posts
These posts about offers, news or other info will show up directly in search and map results.
Messaging
Respond to messages that customers send directly from the GMB listing in the search results.
FAQ
Monitor, respond and post FAQs through GMB to help customers as they review your business.
Photos & Videos
Visual content is key to driving actions. Attaching photos and videos to your GMB is critical.
Reviews
Engage your audience by responding directly to customer reviews on your GMB listing.