One of the most underrated resources on the internet is Google My Business, also known as Google Maps Pack. By properly listing your company on Google, you can instantly reach potential customers who are ready to make a purchase.
If you already run an established company, chances are it is already listed on Google My Business; all you need to do is claim it. However, if you have additional businesses or new locations, you may need to add them.
To get started, visit the Google Business Profile homepage and click the blue 'Manage Now' button in the top right corner. Sign in using your existing Gmail account or create a new one.
Once your listing is up, you can control it by logging into the associated Gmail account and making necessary changes. The email address used for this account won't be displayed on your listing, so you can use either a company-related email or your personal email. If you don't have a Gmail account, you can create one by clicking the "new account" link at the bottom of the page.
Setting up your Google Business listing correctly is crucial to ensure maximum visibility on Google Maps. Some steps may seem self-explanatory, but many businesses still make careless errors that cost them thousands of dollars. To set up your Google My Business (Maps) listing correctly, follow these steps:
1. Input Your Business Name: Type in your company's name exactly as you want it to appear on Google Maps and ensure consistency across all online platforms, including social media accounts.
2. Define Your Business Address and Service Areas: Keep the address consistent everywhere it appears online. If you don't have a physical location for customers to visit, you can choose to conceal it after publishing the listing. However, having a physical location can boost visibility to potential customers.
3. Choose The Correct Business Category: Select the appropriate category that best represents your business and determines how Google will classify it and display it in search results. Use specific categories for better targeting.
4. Verify Your Business on Google: Google will verify the location of your business by sending a postcard with a verification PIN to the provided address. Once you receive the postcard in 3-5 days, use the PIN to activate your listing.
Tip: While waiting for the Google My Business postcard, inform those who handle your mail to be on the lookout for it to ensure its safe arrival. Sometimes, these postcards are mistaken for junk mail and discarded.
By following these steps and correctly setting up your Google My Business listing, you can increase your online visibility and reach potential customers who are actively seeking products or services like yours.