Google My Business (GMB) can be a confusing Google tool to use. Google is constantly updating features, and it’s hard to know what you should do next or if you even need Google My Business at all. But there are many benefits of using Google My Business that make the time spent learning the new changes worth it. If your business has a Google My Business listing, you know that reviews are important.
Managing Google My Business reviews can be tricky. Still, with the following tips, you can make sure you are making the most out of your Google My Business resource and managing your online reputation.
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Tip 1: Respond to Reviews
Responding to reviews is critical, whether they are positive or negative. For example, if you have a GMB listing, customers will be able to leave reviews about their experience with your business. And when people search for your business, they will see these reviews.
Positive reviews show potential customers that other people have had a great experience with your business, encouraging them to try your business out.
Negative reviews can be an opportunity to turn a customer’s experience around. You can show potential customers that you care about your customers and their experience by responding to negative reviews.
When you respond to a review, make sure you are professional. Please do not get into a fight with the reviewer or try to argue with them. Thank them for their positive or negative feedback, and let them know that you are taking steps to improve their experience.
Tip 2: Display Reviews on Your Website
If you have a website, you should display your GMB reviews on your site. This will show potential customers that other people have reviewed your business and that they can trust your business.
Google provides a badge that you can use to display your reviews on your website. The badge will show the average rating of your business and the number of reviews you have. This is a great way to show potential customers that your business is reputable and that you have happy customers.
Go to your GMB listing and click on the “More” menu to get the badge. From there, select “Embed badge.” You will then be able to copy the code for the badge and paste it into your website.
Tip 3: Encourage Customers to Leave Reviews
If you want more reviews, you need to ask your customers to leave them. You can do this by sending follow-up emails after a purchase or transaction or asking them in person.
When you ask for a review, make sure you are specific about where they should leave the review. For example, you should give them the URL for your GMB listing and tell them what you would like them to review. This will make it easier for them to leave a review, and they will be more likely to do so.
Tip 4: Use Google Posts
Google Posts are a great way to show potential customers more about your business. They are short, text-only posts that appear in the Knowledge Panel for your business.
Google Posts can be used to share special offers, announce upcoming events, or simply introduce your business to potential customers.
You can create Google Posts from your GMB listing. Go to the “Posts” tab and click on the “Create post” button. You can then enter the text of your post and add an image or a video.
Tip 5: Use Google My Business to Improve Your SEO
Google My Business can help improve your SEO efforts. The more information you include in your listing, the better your chances of ranking high in search results.
You should ensure that your business name, address, and phone number are all accurate and up to date. You should also include a description of your business and images and videos.
Tip 6: Manage Your Listing Regularly
Your GMB listing is like any other business resource – it needs to be managed regularly. This means keeping your information up to date and responding to reviews in a timely manner.
If you do not manage your listing regularly, it will become outdated, and your ranking in search results will suffer. Plus, potential customers will not have confidence in your business if your listing is inaccurate or incomplete.
Tip 7: Monitor Your Competitors
It is important to keep an eye on your competitors, especially regarding online marketing. Monitor their GMB listings and see what they are doing to attract customers. See what tactics they are using that you could borrow, and make sure you are not falling behind.
If you are proactive about monitoring your competitors, you will be able to stay one step ahead and attract more customers to your business.
Tip 8: Hire an Expert
If you are struggling to manage your GMB listing or improve your SEO, you may consider hiring an expert. Many companies offer GMB management and SEO services.
An expert can help you create an optimized listing for search engines and help you attract more customers to your business. They can also help you monitor your competitors and stay ahead of the curve.
Hiring an expert is an investment, but it can be worth it if you struggle to get results on your own.
Tip 9: Use Google AdWords
Google AdWords can be a great way to get your business in front of more potential customers. With AdWords, you can create ads that will appear on the search results pages and other websites.
AdWords can be a great way to attract attention to your business and increase traffic to your website. However, if you are not familiar with AdWords, you may consider hiring an expert to help you get started.
Tip 10: Get Listed in Local Directories
Many online directories list local businesses. Getting your business listed in these directories can help you attract more customers.
Some of the most popular directories include Yelp, Citysearch, and Google Places. Make sure you are listed in as many directories as possible to reach more potential customers.
Final Thoughts
Google My Business is a valuable tool for any business that wants to improve its online visibility. By following these tips, you can make sure your listing is optimized and attract more customers to your business. Be sure to monitor your competitors and stay ahead of the curve, and you will be sure to see results.
About Carson Derrow
