Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to think about all the various aspects of running a business where you need to have an online presence. Whether it’s social media or keeping your website update, it’s easy to lose track of all the responsibilities. That’s why you might have forgotten about the benefits of listing your business on Google. This is actually a must-do for your online reputation and your professional credibility.

Why Google Business Matters

A presence on the internet can certainly make or break your business but you need to be credible and easily searched online, regardless of all the other components you have in place of your online marketing plan. Many of the people who find your website are doing so from a search engine and if they are looking for a business within their local area, you certainly want to be listed as a local listing on the Google Places page.

Many businesses don’t even know that this page exists for their own firm and this means that your firm might be listed there but not represented fully. Claiming your local business listing on Google and monitoring it isn’t just a bonus but failing to do it could actually be turning business away from you without you even realizing it.

Basics of Google Local Listings

Google’s job is to make things as easy as possible for any individual using their search engine. Geography, of course, plays a role in this when someone searches for a pizza place, a hairstylist, a nail salon or a moving company or any other kind of business. Your firm is no different. Google uses your computer’s IP address or mobile phone to determine where you’re searching and gives you relevant businesses. When someone’s looking for you, you want to make a good impression.

An unclaimed page on Google listings looks questionable for your business, particularly if you have a competitor’s name listed immediately below. You also run the risk of giving someone else the opportunity to claim your business page. You can claim your business page by following these steps:

1. Find your business on Google My Business.
2. Fill out the appropriate information.
3. Verify your business with the verification code received after one to two weeks.
4. Add any details to your Google business page.
5. Continue to manage your page.

One of the most effective ways to manage your page after you have claimed your Google local business listing is to make sure that people who have been happy with your service go on and leave you a review. This helps add to your credibility and builds trust with new potential customers.    

Need help getting started with Google Business? Contact Media Driven Results for more information.