4 Out of 5 First Interactions are Online
We’re sure it will come as no surprise to you that the vast majority of your customers will have their first interaction with your business online.
No brainer, right?
But, do you also know that 4 out of 5 consumers use a search engine to check opening hours, find your address and get directions?
It’s true. They’re not going to your social media for that, they’re not searching for your business and heading to your website – they’re using Google My Business.
So when you put it like that, if your potential customers are using Google My Business…
Are you?
The Best Free Website Traffic Generator
Let’s cut to the chase here!
One of the best things about Google My Business is that it’s free. Not only is it free for you to set up, it’s also easy to set up and to maintain.
And, that in itself is crucial.
Having a listing with the correct details means your potential customers are dialling the right number, and driving to the right address during the hours you’re actually open.
So, what does Google My Business do for you?
- Get found locally: It gives you the chance to show up for searches that match your business and location
- Get found by buyers: It makes you visible to those looking to buy
- Gain more hot leads: Google My Business drives quality and qualified traffic your way
- Gain a greater online presence: Your customers can easily post reviews, boosting your relevance and credibility in potential customer’s eyes!
And, can we mention again that it’s FREE?!
Why do consumers love Google My Business
When you ask Google why you need a Google My Business listing, this is what they’ll tell you…
Google My Business gives you the power to attract and engage customers when they search for your business on Google. Your Business Profile gives you a presence on Google Search and Maps, allowing you to respond to Reviews, post photos of products or special offers, and add/edit your business details.
So let’s break that down and show why your potential customers are loving it so much.
Google Search & Maps – Your customers can find you in every sense. When they’re searching for you, what you offer or are looking for local businesses, they can find your contact details and be given directions to head your way. Also, considering that the majority of searchers are on their mobiles, they want the right answers, right away. Google My Business is 100% mobile friendly.
Photos educate & break down barriers – How good is it that searchers can see what it’s like to be at your business? You can start giving them the experience from buying from you before they’ve even set foot in your door.
Reviews build trust – We all love reading reviews, don’t we? In fact, 93% of consumers say online reviews impact their purchase decision. By being able to see what your existing customers say about you, you’re building trust and approval with your potential customers.
Are your competitors wise to all of this?
If they are, you want to be right there with them. If they’re not, what an incredible opportunity you have to stand out from the crowd!
According to Google, research shows that a complete profile is 38% more likely to succeed in attracting visits from potential customers. It also makes businesses twice as likely to be considered reputable.
What you need to do to get the most out of your listing
For starters, you need to make sure you have a listing!
Head straight to Google.com/Business. There, you’ll see that you can be create an account for your business, within which you’ll be in charge of what information people see when they Google your business.
Then you want to make sure you have the accurate information entered for your:
- Phone number
- Website address
- Opening Hours
- Business address
- Logo & Cover Photo
- Business Category
- Photos, photos & more photos – According to Google’s statistics, “businesses that add photos to their listings receive 42% more requests for driving directions on Google Maps.” They also receive 35% more clicks to their website.
- Short Name/URL – These make it easier for your customers to find you, and once again make you look more trustworthy in your customer’s eyes.
- Responses to Reviews – This is vital! By responding to Reviews left, you’ll build trust and confidence with anyone who finds your listing.
And don’t forget to check your Insights. Then you can discover exactly how effective your listing actually is!
Are your competitors wise to all of this?
If they are, you want to be right there with them. If they’re not, what an incredible opportunity you have to stand out from the crowd!
According to Google, research shows that a complete profile is 38% more likely to succeed in attracting visits from potential customers. It also makes businesses twice as likely to be considered reputable.
Need help with your listing?
We get it. You’ve read all of this and can see why you have to have an accurate listing.
But you’ve got a to-do list a mile long and this is something you don’t want to think about – you just want it done.
Well, we’d love to help!
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