How to Create a business profile on google
Ranking in the top search results on Google, contrary to what you may believe, is not just for big businesses. The first step to making your business findable by your customer base if to set up a business profile on Google. Google business profiles provide essential information such as contact details, business hours, website links, and your location. It simplifies the process for potential customers to find and engage with your business. By having this data in a google profile, you begin setting up your business to appear in search engine results.
Another perk is the insights and analytics provided by Google Business Profiles. Google can offer you valuable data about how your customer interact with your business online. This can then refine marketing strategies and improving your customers experiences. Additionally, this data can help with your websites search optimization functions.
As a free service, it serves as a cost-effective way to promote your business and broaden your audience. In essence, a Google Business Profile is an essential for any professional business's online presence, facilitating growth, customer engagement, and local market dominance.
What your need to have to set up your google business profile:
A Google account: You need a Google account to create and manage your Google Business Profile. If you don't have one, you can create it for free.
Know your business information: Gather all necessary information about your business, including its name, address, phone number, website, business category, and hours of operation.
The business logo and any relevant photos: Prepare high-quality images of your logo, storefront (if applicable), interior (if applicable), and any other relevant photos that showcase your business.
A verification method: Be prepared to verify your business ownership. Google may use various methods such as mail, phone, or email to verify your business.
Things you will need to know:
The businesses trading name: Ensure that your business name is accurate and consistent with how it's represented official. Try to avoid using keyword stuffing or adding unnecessary information to your google title.
A business address: Google will require a physical address of your business. If you don’t have a specific trading address you can hide the address and use a general area which you trade in. If you operate from multiple locations, you can create separate listings for each.
Contact number: Use a phone number that directly connects customers to your business. Avoid using tracking numbers or numbers shared with multiple businesses.
Website: If you have a website, ensure it's functional, mobile-friendly, and provides relevant information about your business.
The Business Category: Choose the most appropriate category for your business. This helps Google understand what your business does and displays it accurately in search results.
Hours of operation: Specify your regular business hours accurately. Update them for holidays or special occasions.
Now, let's move on to the step-by-step guide for setting up your Google Business Profile:
Step 1: Sign in to Google My Business
Go to the Google My Business website (https://www.google.com/business/) and sign in using your Google account.
Step 2: Add Your Business
Click on the "Manage now" button.
Enter your business name. If your business doesn't appear in the drop down list, click on "Add your business to Google."
Step 3: Enter Business Information
Fill in your business information, including address, phone number, website, and business category.
Ensure that all information is accurate and consistent with your offline presence.
Step 4: Verify Your Business
Google will verify your business to confirm that you are the rightful owner. Choose your preferred verification method (typically mail or phone).
Follow the instructions to complete the verification process.
Step 5: Optimize Your Profile
Add details specific to your business profile, such as hours, services, and a description.
Make sure to upload high-quality photos that showcase your business, including your logo, storefront, and interior.
From there, make sure you regularly are monitoring your profile. Ensure you respond to customer reviews and messages promptly to engage with your audience regularly. Let us know if you have any further questions or need assistance with any specific aspect of the process!