As the name implies, Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) allows you to create a business listing on Google. It ensures you provide the necessary information customers need to visit your site or store, contact your company or make a purchase.
Google is the most popular search engine worldwide with a stunning search market share. Creating a GMB account on Google makes it easy for you to ensure that customers acquire relevant information about your company when they reach your business on Google or search for terms related to your products or services.
According to Net Marketshare, roughly 80 percent of all searches happen on Google. This means that your target market relies on Google’s first page to find the products and services it needs. That is why creating a GMB account is so important.
To enlist a business on Google My Business, follow these steps:
Sign In or Sign Up: Go to the Google My Business website (business.google.com) and sign in using the Google account (Gmail) you want to use to manage the business listing. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.
Add a New Business: Once signed in, click the “Manage now” button. If you have businesses already listed, you might need to click on the “+ Create business” button.
Enter Business Name: Enter the name of your business. If your business is not listed, you can select “Add your business to Google.”
Choose Business Category: Choose the most relevant category that describes your business. This helps Google understand what your business offers.
Location: Enter the address of your business. If you deliver goods or services to customers but don’t have a physical storefront, you can specify that as well.
Service Area: If your business serves customers at their locations (e.g., a plumbing service), you can specify the geographic areas you cover.
Contact Information: Enter your business phone number and website URL.
Verification: Choose a verification method. Google needs to verify that you’re the owner of the business. This might involve receiving a postcard with a verification code, a phone call, email, or instant verification if your business is eligible. You may contact MindtheGap for support.
Verify Your Business: Follow the instructions provided for the chosen verification method. Once verified, your business listing will become visible on Google. Thereafter, you can try searching for your business on Google. For example, search for Mind the Gap Nigeria. The small profile on the right side of the search results is Google My Business.
Complete Your Profile: After verification, log in to your Google My Business account. You can now add more information such as business hours, photos, a description, services, products, and any other relevant details.
Engage and Manage: Regularly log in to your Google My Business account to manage customer reviews, update information, post updates or promotions, and monitor insights. Doing this will help you to improve customer engagement.
If you don’t have a Google My Business account, you are missing out on the opportunity to generate more traffic and business and differentiate yourself in Google. To boost Your business’ visibility and local search optimisation, always provide accurate and detailed information, as it would best enhance online presence and make it easier for potential customers to find and interact with your business.
