How to create a Google business listing and optimize it to attract more local customers
Having an online presence is essential for any to attract local customers. One of the most powerful tools for achieving this is Google My Business (GMB). Creating and optimizing a Google business listing can significantly improve your visibility and attract more customers. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create and optimize your Google business listing.
Why create a Google business listing?
Creating a Google business listing improves online visibility and facilitates access to key information such as address, opening hours and telephone number. It reinforces credibility thanks to customer reviews and allows you to interact directly with them. You can promote special offers, attract more traffic to your website and benefit from detailed statistics to adjust your strategies. What's more, the listing optimizes your presence on Google Maps, essential for mobile users, increasing your chances of attracting and converting local customers.
Steps for creating a Google business listing
Go to the "Google business card" site
To get started, go to " Google business card" . Click on the " Manage " button to begin the process of creating your listing.
Sign in to your Google Account
Use the Google Account you'd like to associate with your business. If you don't already have a Google Account, you'll need to create one.
Add your establishment
Type your company name in the search bar. If your business does not appear in the list, click on " Add your business to Google " to create a new listing.
Fill in the information about your establishment
- Company name: make sure your company name is accurate and matches the one you use on other platforms.
- Company category: choose the category that best describes your core business. You can add secondary categories later.
- Address and service area: if you have a physical point of sale, enter the exact address. If you offer services in a specific area without a fixed point of sale, select the service area.
- Contact details: add a contact phone number and the URL of your website. This makes it easy for customers to contact you.
Establishment verification
Google will send a postal mail (in most cases, as other validation processes exist) containing a verification code to your business address. Once received, log in to your Google My Business account and enter the code to validate your listing.
Tips for optimizing your Google business listing
Complete and accurate information
Make sure all sections of your listing are complete and up-to-date. This includes address, opening hours, telephone number and website. Correct and complete information helps customers to find and contact you easily.
Relevant categories
Choose the main category most relevant to your business. Add additional categories if necessary to cover all aspects of your business. For example, if you're a pizzeria that also offers cooking classes, add these two categories.
Company description
Write a clear, concise description of your business. Use relevant keywords to improve your SEO. For example, "We're an artisan pizzeria offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads and homemade desserts."
Photos and videos
Add high-quality photos of your establishment, your products and your team. Photos should be attractive and representative of your business. Videos can also be added to give a dynamic overview of your business.
Customer feedback
Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google listing. Positive reviews boost your credibility and attract new customers. Respond to all reviews, whether positive or negative, in a professional manner.
Google My Business publications
Use publications to share updates, events, promotions and news. Publications show that your listing is active and up-to-date, which benefits customer engagement.
Services and products
Add a detailed list of the services or products you offer. Use clear descriptions and relevant images for each service or product. This helps customers better understand what you offer.
Monitoring and analysis
Use the statistics provided by Google to understand how customers find and interact with your listing. Analyze this data to adapt your strategy and continually improve your listing.
Conclusion
Creating a Google business listing is an essential step for any company wishing to improve its local visibility and attract more customers. It's a powerful, free tool that offers many advantages, from easy access to essential information to customer interaction and performance analysis.
For help creating or optimizing your Google listing and attracting more local customers, contact us today.
We're here to help you achieve your local SEO goals!
Chairman & Co-founder, Epifyt SAS
A digital marketing specialist for several years, I created Epifyt in 2018 to help you develop your online visibility. I'd be delighted to discuss your project, so please don't hesitate to contact me or arrange a telephone appointment !