If you need to find directions or you’re looking for a new business, chances are you’ll check Google Maps. If that’s the case, you’re in good company. More than 150 million people use the service every month.
Google Maps marketing can be one of the most effective ways to get your business out there. But even many marketing professionals don’t know how to promote their business through Google Maps. Using the site for marketing purposes can seem daunting, but the potential rewards are high.
If you’re looking for ways to rank higher on Google and boost your Google Maps marketing strategy, you’re in the right place. We put this guide together to help, so read on!
Get Verified
Let’s start with the basics. You need to get your business listed on Google Maps and verify your details. If your details aren’t verified, your business won’t rank as highly in Google searches.
First, you’ll need to visit your listing on Google and click the option to verify yourself as the owner. Next, you can choose to verify the business through a phone call, or by receiving a postcard from Google. Whichever method you choose, it should only take a week or two and you’ll start to notice yourself appearing in more searches soon afterward.
Claim It
Many Google Maps listings are auto-generated or added by members of the public. So, you may be surprised to learn that your business is already listed on Maps without you having to lift a finger!
This is a good starting point, but before you can add pictures and correct details, you need to claim the listing as your own. You will need to provide a few things to prove that you really are the business owner, but the process isn’t too difficult.
Run through the same process for verifying your business, which will allow you to take control of the listing and alter the details. Don’t just sit back and allow the unclaimed listing to sit there idly, or you could be missing out on some serious marketing opportunities.
Get the Details Right
Your Google Maps listing should come equipped with some basic details, including opening hours and your address. You need to ensure those details are accurate. Keep them in mind when making any changes to your business and update those details in turn.
Imagine how your business might be impacted if these details aren’t kept up to date. Customers could drive out to the wrong address or arrive after closing time. If they’ve been misinformed, you could lose their business forever.
The details you add aren’t just important for informing your customers. They can also help with SEO by boosting your status in the algorithm.
Adding a local phone number demonstrates you’re a local business and this will help you to appear in localized search results. And regularly updating your business hours, including temporary closures and changes, sends a signal to Google that your business is active online. These small touches will help you appear higher in the rankings.
Add Some Photos
When you search for a business on Google, you’ll likely notice pictures of the premises show up with your result. This is a great way for many people to get a quick understanding of important details of the business. For example, someone looking for a family restaurant will want to get a look at the seating area before choosing to eat there.
Pictures are key to a good Google Maps marketing plan. Try to step into your potential customers’ shoes. Imagine what they might be looking for in a business then try to add pictures that capture the best aspects of your business.
Photo Spheres
Photo spheres are a great way to promote your business on Google Maps. Using Street View, visitors to the site can digitally step into your business and take a look around at everything you have to offer. They can enjoy a 360-view, looking around as if they were really inside the store.
Be sure to put your best foot forward when it comes to taking these photos. Make the premises look as inviting as possible and try to showcase your most impressive products.
While you can take the pictures yourself if you wish, it may be worth hiring a professional photographer to do the job for you. You only get one chance to make a first impression and many people will see these photos before they see your business in the flesh.
Post on Your Business Listing
Google Maps offers you the opportunity to make posts about your business which will appear beside your listing. This is just like a blog or social media outlet where you can keep customers and local people up to date on goings on.
Make good use of this feature. Try to post a small update every week or two as a minimum. This shows Google your business is active and has the added bonus of providing information to customers.
Get Reviews to Boost Google Maps Marketing
Naturally, Google likes to recommend highly rated businesses. Companies with lots of five-star ratings rank higher in the algorithm. And a steady stream of reviews helps to show your business is active and attracting plenty of customers.
Try encouraging people to leave reviews for your business. Start with friends and family members who should be happy to leave a few reviews to indicate your business is doing well.
Next, try encouraging your customers to leave reviews. Offer a gift certificate or a discount to customers who leave reviews on Google.
While you’ll naturally attract reviews over time, it never hurts to encourage more. Be sure to respond professionally to all reviews left on your business, good or bad. For bad reviews, try to find a way to fix the issue.
Next Level Marketing
Paying attention to your Google listings can be a game changer for your business. Google Maps marketing is one of the best ways to stand out from other local businesses and catch the attention of the general public.
To get the best results from Google Maps, you need to work with a professional marketing company. Here at Bipper Media, we specialize in helping businesses to rank higher on Google. Check out our shop today to learn more about our services.
