When you want to build your company's online presence, gain organic search traffic, and interact with customers old and new, a Google Business Profile (GBP) is the way to do it. Formerly known as "Google My Business," GBP is Google Search’s online directory of business listings.
GBPs are small listings that pop up when users perform a search using relevant keywords. They appear on results pages and integrate with other services, such as Google Maps. Think of your profile as a central information hub for your company. It's an essential tool in your marketing arsenal; no modern business is complete without one. Below we’ll look at the various benefits of having a Google Business Profile along with how to register and optimize your listing.
Why GBP Should Be Part of Your Vancouver Internet Marketing Strategy
If there's only one thing you do to market your business online, it should be registering and updating a GBP. Here's why:
Visibility: GBP allows your business to appear on relevant SERPs (Search Engine Results Pages)
Company details - Provide crucial operating information like hours, address, phone numbers, service details & more
Organic search traffic - You can drive traffic to your company’s website
Local SEO - Appear on Google Maps and Google Local Pack Listing.
Build trust - Verify business details to give customers peace of mind
Increased engagement - Create opportunities for customers to engage through reviews, questions, online ordering hubs, and more
Stand out from the competition - Quality optimization from an SEO company can make your listing more appealing than competitors
Actionable Insights - Harness the analytical power of Google to learn more about your target demo
Digital Marketing in Vancouver: How to Register Your GBP
Register your business profile by logging into your Google Account and creating a listing. In some cases, a profile may already exist for your company. You can claim it to take control.
Google will then ask for a few business details. Afterward, you’ll be given options on how you’d like to verify your business. Options may include:
- Phone call or text
- Video recording
- Live video chat with a Google rep
- Physical postcard via mail
Optimizing Your Profile With an SEO Consultant
It's not enough to claim your GBP. To have an impact, it needs updated information. The best approach is to fill out as many details as possible. But here are the most important things to update for complete optimization.
- Business Information: This includes details like business name, address, phone number, website link, hours of operation, etc.
- Categories: Individual descriptors that tell Google and search users what type of business you do.
- Service Areas: Information about the local areas you serve.
- Keyword-rich description: A short blurb describing your business. If you have multiple locations, create unique blurbs for each.
- Photos: Upload business logos, cover photos, images of your physical locations, and other relevant pictures.
- Videos: Short marketing-style videos showing customers what your business is all about.
- Services and products: Provide a glimpse of your business's services or products.
- Google Business Profile posts: Social-style posts for announcements, limited-time offers, stock alerts, and more.
The Importance of Google Business Profile Reviews
Reviews are a widely utilized feature of Google Business Profile. It's a place for consumers to leave feedback, further legitimizing your company and improving local SEO. Patrons can leave reviews on their own accord, or you can generate a review link to send to satisfied customers. But what about bad reviews?
Negative reviews allow you to make amends with unsatisfied clients, showing that your business cares and encourages constructive feedback. Respond to all posts, and you can create a lasting connection with your customer base.
Turn to an SEO Consultant
Registering your GBP is only the beginning. To continue seeing positive results, keep your profile up to date. Do it yourself, or turn to an agency that handles digital marketing in Vancouver.
Regular updates ensure you share the most accurate information and grab every chance to engage customers. Updates improve your SEO, help you improve your online reputation, and leave a positive impression on future customers.
Claim your Google Business Profile and make the most of this free online marketing tool. When you want to maximize its potential, ask about our SEO marketing packages. We're a Vancouver Internet marketing company ready to help you gain more leads and boost your bottom line.
