Claim Your Business on Google
Claiming your business profile on Google is an easy and extremely important marketing first step to give your business visibility and credibility.
Welcome to the first edition of GoDak Marketing Launchpad! Today, we’re covering a simple yet essential step that’s often overlooked by many businesses, especially smaller ones: claiming your Google Business Profile.
In today’s digital world, the internet is like the modern-day Yellow Pages. If your business doesn’t have a strong online presence, you risk getting overlooked by potential customers. Claiming your Google Business Profile is the first step to making sure people can find you online.
Why Should You Claim Your Google Business Profile?
Google works hard to identify businesses, but sometimes it gets things wrong or misses your business entirely. By claiming your Google Business Profile, you make sure all the details about your business are accurate and up-to-date. Here’s what you can control when you claim your profile:
• Your Contact Information
• Your Business Hours
• A Description of Your Products or Services
• Links to Your Website and Social Media
• Your Business Address
Why Your Address Is So Important
If you have a physical location, your address matters. It’s how customers and delivery drivers will find you. Many people use Google to get directions, so having your address correctly listed can drive foot traffic and increase local visibility. This is especially critical for small, local businesses!
Why Your Business Hours Matter
It might seem obvious, but keeping your business hours up-to-date is essential. Google will even send you reminders to update your hours around holidays or special events. Are you closed on Christmas Day? Do you have special hours for the weekend after Thanksgiving? Keeping your hours updated helps your customers know when you’re open and ready to serve them.
More Features to Take Advantage Of
Google Business Profiles offer more than just basic info. Here are some additional features you can use:
• Post Photos to showcase your products, services, or location
• Share Updates or special offers with customers
• Answer Customer Questions directly through your profile
• Receive and Manage Reviews, which brings us to the next point…
Reviews: A Little Nerve-Wracking, but Incredibly Valuable
We get it: reviews can be scary. But whether they’re positive or negative, reviews are incredibly important for your business. Think of it this way: you’re better off knowing what customers think so you can improve. Plus, good reviews can boost your credibility and help you stand out to potential customers.
What If I Don’t Have a Website?
No website? No problem! Even if you don’t have a website or just use social media, claiming your Google Business Profile is still one of the best ways to get noticed online. It’s free, quick, and easy—and it tells the world that you’re open for business.
What If I Don’t See My Business Profile?
If you search for your business on Google and don’t see it, don’t panic. You can create a listing from scratch. The process is simple and Google will guide you step-by-step.
Google Will Try to Sell You Ads (But Don’t Worry)
Once your profile is set up, Google will likely prompt you to purchase ads. While Google Ads can be an effective marketing tool, your Google Business Profile itself is free, and it’s a great starting point for increasing your visibility online.
Have You Claimed Your Profile?
If you haven’t claimed your Google Business Profile yet, do it now! It’s quick, easy, and free. If you’re not sure if you’ve already claimed it, check now—it only takes a minute.
What About Bing?
While Google dominates the search engine world, don’t overlook Bing. Bing powers search on many Microsoft devices, so claiming your business profile there is worth considering. The process is similar to Google’s, and although Bing doesn’t get as much traffic, it’s still valuable to expand your online presence.
Conclusion
For the best chance at visibility online, claim your Google Business Profile today. And while you’re at it, consider claiming your Bing profile too. It’s a quick and easy step that can make a big difference for your business.
Thanks for reading this edition of GoDak Marketing Launchpad! Make sure to claim your profiles today and take the first step toward boosting your business’s online presence!
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