How to improve the visibility of your business on google maps

How to improve the visibility of your business on google maps

Looking to improve your presence online? We can help! Regardless of the size of your business, having it easily visible on Google Maps is a great way to boost business. Google Maps isn't just about the location of your business, it's about the positioning in which your business shows up in a Google search.

It all comes down to algorithms. Having a clear understanding of what Google Algorithms will 'catch' is extremely important. Throughout this article, we will explain the importance of things such as using keywords in your company name, responding to reviews, and categorizing your business correctly are of great importance.

5 crucial steps to step up your business listing

1. Verify your business

The first thing you need to do is submit all your business information to Google My Business. Be sure to verify it once it's been submitted by requesting a verification code that you can simply enter when the platform prompts.

Double-check that your business name, address, and location are correct prior to entering the verification code.

2. Categorize your business

When you submit your listing to be verified, you can also select the categories that you'd like your business to fall under. While you can select several categories, it's best to choose only the categories that strongly apply to your business. Be sure the categories are relevant and apply directly to your business. In this case, less is more!

3. Use keywords in your business name

Having keywords in the name of your business will increase the chances of clicks you're looking for. When people are searching for a business, they often type in simple search terms and only look at the top 2 or 3 search results. By having a keyword in your business name, it will trigger Google to pull your company name to the top and users will be more likely to click.

Example: If someone is searching for a new mobile phone company, they may simply search the words "mobile phone cases". If you have named your business '123 Cellular' it will be hard for Google and your customers to find your site unless they know the exact name and website address. However, if you named your company 'Mobile 123 Phone Cases' you will have 3 keywords that Google and customers will recognize and will move your appearance closer to the top.

4. Use relevant pictures

Be sure to upload pictures of your business and use descriptive titles. (Hint: this is another great way to use those keywords we've been talking about). By adding photos, you give your customers and potential customers a clear understanding of what to expect and what type of services you offer. When adding descriptive titles, customers can directly get impressions of what they are looking for.

For example: When searching for a restaurant, the first thing most people want to see is the menu. However, we suggest not putting the menu first as the customers will stop looking to the rest of the pictures. Instead, post a few pictures of your most popular dishes with descriptive titles such as "Homemade Apple Pie" or "German sausages". These keywords will trigger Google every time someone searches for either of these items.

Keep in mind that Google will add some photos of your business and location as well, but they may not always be what you were hoping for. You may find that the photos also show the garbage bins or the fence of the neighboring property, this is not what your customers want to see. By taking some great photos of your business and uploading them to Google, you can ensure that your customers are seeing exactly what you want them to see!

5. Add your website or Facebook page

Having your own website is very important nowadays. This is where people can find the information you want them to see and makes it possible to contact you directly instead of using an intermediary.

However, setting up a website will costs time and money. If you just starting your business or don't know anyone who can help you with this, start with a Facebook page. Here you can list all your important business details, including your contact information.

If you have your own website, make sure it is mobile-friendly. Keep in mind that the majority of Google Maps users are doing so from their mobile devices. The last thing a customer wants is to click on your site only to find that it's not mobile-friendly and they are unable to navigate the page easily.

How to grow the number of customers you reach with your business listing

The more reviews your listing has, the more visible it will be to people who are searching for relevant businesses in your area. Encourage customers to leave reviews if you feel they received great service. Most customers are happy to spend a couple of minutes saying a few good words when they have had a positive experience. However, do not pressure or beg customers to leave reviews, this can be off-putting to many people and may not result in the good reviews you were hoping for.

Respond to all reviews, positive and negative

When replying to positive reviews, be sure to thank your customers for their patronage and for their review. Let them know that you appreciate their business and are looking forward to helping them again in the future. This is a great way to generate repeat business and to keep your business tops in Google searches!

If you've received a negative review, for whatever reason, apologize to your customer that they were not satisfied with the service they received. Offer to rectify the situation or ask how they would like to see it rectified. Customers tend to respond very well to businesses that take ownership of their mistakes and try to fix them. This can also create repeat business, customer loyalty, and also keep your business near the top of the Google searches.

When responding to your reviews, both negative and positive, use keywords! For example, if a customer searches "Indian Curry nearby", Google will also check to see if these keywords have been mentioned in the reviews. Simply by using keywords in your reply, you will increase your Google presence!

Always remember that your first priority is to keep your customer happy, keywords come second!

Also, keep in mind that the rating scales of +4.0 and +4.5 are used by many people to find the best options in the search results. You want to make sure you're among the highest rating to stay on top of your replies and remember to use keywords.

Last, but not least: Be patient

Improving your visibility in Google Maps doesn't need to be complicated. If you follow the tips above, you can get higher in the search results and reach more potential customers with minimum effort.

However, don't expect immediate results. Similar to all marketing efforts, improving your visibility in Google Maps will take time. In particular, closing any gap in the nr of reviews with your competitor will take time, but we can assure you that your patience will be rewarded!

Last, we want to assure you that you keep paying attention to your listing. Keep it up to date by uploading new photos regularly, respond to all your reviews, and don't forget to use your keywords!

You'll also want to regularly confirm that the information posted is correct. Check your address, location, opening hours, phone number, and all pertinent information on a monthly basis. If something is incorrect or missing, be sure to contact Google Maps immediately and submit the correct information. Especially in the first months, this is very important to check!

In the meantime, focus on what matters the most - taking care of your customers and providing excellent service! This is the only way to keep and grow your customer base in the long term!