Looking to find out how to list your business on Google Maps? If you’re here, you probably see the value of having your business listed on Google Maps. Or maybe you’re just trying to figure out how to do it.
Getting your business on Google Maps is key to reaching more local customers. But how do you do it? If you’re looking for answers, you’re in the right place! We’ve put together this easy guide to help you add your Manchester business location to Google Maps and attract customers from your area. Let’s dive in!
Why Add Your Business to Google Maps?
There are great benefits to putting your business on Google Maps, no matter what type of business you have. This is especially true for brick-and-mortar stores that want to make it easy for potential customers to find them.
Let’s say, if you run a cozy coffee shop in Manchester and someone nearby is searching for a great place to grab a cup of coffee, wouldn’t you want your shop to appear in the top results? The more visible you are, the more likely customers are to choose you.
In fact, a study found that 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business within a day, and 28% of those searches result in a purchase. Additionally, businesses with complete listings on Google Maps receive 7 times more requests for directions and 70% more phone calls than those without a listing. To show up on the map, make sure your business has as much information as possible, like contact details, hours, and reviews. This helps potential customers feel sure about choosing your business.
How to Get Your Business Listed on Google Maps
Ready to get started? To add your business to Google Maps, you first need a Google My Business profile. Here’s how to set everything up step-by-step:
Step 1: Create a Google Account
Before you can add your business, you need a Google account. If you already have one, great! If not, don’t worry—it’s quick and easy.
- Go to the Google Account creation page.
- Fill in your name, choose a username (this will be your email), and create a password.
- Follow the prompts to complete the setup, including verifying your phone number.
Having a Google account lets you manage your business on Google Maps and access other helpful Google tools.
Step 2: Go to Google My Business
Once your Google account is ready, head over to Google My Business. This is where you’ll manage your business’s online presence.
- Visit the Google My Business website.
- Click on the “Manage now” button to get started.
Step 3: Enter Your Business Information
Now, it’s time to fill out your business details. This info is what people will see when they find you on Google Maps, so make sure it’s accurate.
- Business Name: Enter the name of your business exactly as it appears in real life.
- Address: Input your physical address. If you work from home or serve a specific area, you can specify that too.
- Phone Number: Add a phone number where customers can reach you easily.
- Website: If you have a website, include the link. If you don’t have one, consider creating one to help attract customers!
- Category: Choose the best category for your business. This helps Google show you to the right audience.
Step 4: Verify Your Business
After entering your details, you’ll need to verify your business. This step is important to prove that your business is legitimate.
- Postcard Verification: Google will send a postcard with a verification code to your address. Once you receive it, log back into Google My Business and enter the code.
- Phone Verification: If eligible, you can verify your business by receiving a phone call or text message with a code.
- Email Verification: Some businesses can verify through email. Check if this option is available for you.
Step 5: Optimise Your Listing
Now that your business is verified, let’s make it stand out! An optimised Google My Business profile can attract more customers.
- Add Photos: Upload high-quality images of your business, products, and team. Good photos help customers get a feel for what you offer.
- Business Hours: Set your hours so customers know when to visit.
- Description: Write a short and engaging description of what your business does. Use relevant keywords to help people find you.
Step 6: Manage Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are super important for your business. They help build your reputation and attract new customers.
- Respond to Reviews: Make sure to reply to both positive and negative reviews. Thank customers for their feedback and respond to any issues.
- Encourage Reviews: Ask happy customers to leave reviews. You can send them a link to your Google My Business profile after they’ve used your services.
- Learn from Feedback: Use reviews as a chance to improve your business. If you notice common feedback, think about making changes.
Step 7: Keep Your Info Updated
It’s essential to keep your Google My Business listing current. If your hours change or you move locations, update your profile right away.
Regular updates keep your customers informed and show Google that your business is active. This can help improve your ranking in searches.
Need Assistance?
If you need help setting up your Google Business Profile or managing local directories, ERSISM Agency in Manchester is here for you! We love helping businesses like yours get noticed online. Contact us today to see how we can enhance your Google Business Profile and local directories!
