Mastering Local Visibility: Your Comprehensive Guide to Claiming Your Google Business Profile
Are you a home service business owner looking to boost your online presence and attract more local customers? Look no further! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to claim, verify, and optimize your business listing on Google Maps. Get ready to take control of your digital footprint and watch your visibility soar!
How to Claim Your Google Business Profile or Google My Business
- Visit Google Business Profile: Visit the Google My Business website https://www.google.com/business/ and sign in with your Google account.
- Enter Your Business Name: Input your business name to see if it’s already listed on Google Maps. If it’s not, you can create a new listing.
- Confirm Your Business Details: Verify that the details shown for your business are correct. If there’s an existing listing claimed by someone else, you may need to request ownership.
- Request Ownership: If your business is already listed and claimed by someone else, you can request ownership by following Google’s prompts. You’ll need to provide information to verify your association with the business.
How to Verify Your Listing
- Select a Verification Method: Google offers several verification methods, including mail, phone, video verification, and instant verification (for eligible businesses). Choose the method that works best for you.
- Mail Verification: If you select mail verification, Google will send a postcard to your business address with a verification code. Once you receive the postcard, enter the code in your Google My Business dashboard to verify your listing.
- Phone Verification: Google will send a verification code to the phone number or email address associated with your business listing. Enter the code to complete the verification process.
- Video Verification: Record an unedited and continuous video. Capture your business’s location, including official street signs, nearby establishments, and the surrounding area, to verify its accuracy on Google Maps. For businesses with a physical location, showcase evidence of existence by filming the storefront, showroom, or business signage. Service providers should include footage of relevant equipment, products for sale, branded tools, or marketing materials.
Optimizing Your Business Listing for Success
Complete Your Profile: Ensure that all sections of your Google My Business profile are filled out completely and accurately. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website URL, business hours, and categories.
Add Photos and Videos: Upload high-quality photos and videos that showcase your business, including your storefront, interior, team members, and services.
Write a Compelling Description: Craft a concise and engaging business description highlighting what sets your business apart and your services.
Collect and Respond to Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google My Business listing. Monitor and respond to reviews promptly to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.
Utilize Google Posts: Take advantage of Google Posts to share updates, promotions, events, and other relevant content directly on your Google My Business listing.
Following these steps will allow you to claim, verify, and optimize your Google Business Profile for maximum visibility and success on Google Maps.
You’re On Your Way
Congratulations! You’ve taken the first steps toward improving your local visibility and attracting more customers with your Google Business Profile on Maps. By claiming, verifying, and optimizing your listing, you’ve positioned your business for success in the competitive digital landscape. Need further assistance? Contact On Purpose Media today for expert guidance tailored to your business needs.
