What Is Google My Business And Will It Help My Small Business Rank in Search?

Nearly 97% of consumers use online media to research products and services in their local area according to a study conducted by BIA/Kelsey.  That same study goes on to point out that of those surveyed, 90% use search engines like Google and 48% use Internet Yellow Pages.

With that said, it’s fair to assume that customers are looking for your business, or something similar to it, online.

So, in addition to building a well-optimized website, explore Google My Business. It may help your business get better found within Google.

What is Google My Business?

Google My Business, formerly known as Google Places for Business, is a free service offered by Google that makes it easier for your business to be found on Google Search, Google Maps, and Google+.

With a verified Google My Business listing, upon search, your business listing will display a map pin pointing your location, contact information, store hours, pictures, customer ratings and reviews.

You also get access to details – facts and figures – about how customers interact with your listing and the information you post.  You’ll have access to analytics like the number of times customers find your business on Google, the number of clicks on your listing, driving direction requests, and website visits.  All of this information works together to create a solid profile of who’s interested in your business.  Check it out below:

But is it right for my business?

How your business appears in search has a significant impact on its appearance in search engine results. And on Google, having an updated Google local listing helps clear the clutter and give you an opportunity to share real-time information, like special offers and discounts, with customers when they’re looking for it.

In turn, they can publicly declare how great their experience has been with your business through the Google reviews and ratings system.

Talk about free press!

What’s the catch?

Well, if you’ve got a Google account and a few minutes to set this up, you’re ready to get started.  However, your business and website do have to meet certain quality guidelines in order to appear.  Google uses a verification process to validate your business prior to posting your listing.  Take the time to familiarize yourself with the criteria and make corrections where necessary.

If your business passes all of Google’s checkpoints, the onus is now on you to keep your listing and Google+ page updated regularly.  The same social etiquette rules apply here.  Little activity, little result.

What if I work from home?

Good question.  That is tricky and will take a thorough reading of the guidelines to sort out.  During the set up phase, you’ll have an option to inform Google of that.  In lieu of a showing your address, your listing will reference that you serve the general area you select.

Is it really worth the trouble?

If your business sails through the checkpoints and is listed, it’s totally worth it. The visibility alone makes it worth it. And getting a Google+ page, yet another place to show your worth and start a dialogue with customers, is a plus, no pun intended!

And it’s free.  For a small business marketing budget, that’s good news.

But, Google My Business isn’t going to solve all your local search marketing issues.  Other platforms like Foursquare for Business, Yelp, and Yext are worth strong consideration as well.

Remember, regardless of which one or combination of the lot you choose, they should all be viewed as a portion of a larger plan, one that includes cross channel activity, that funnels into a well-thought out marketing strategy for your business.