These days, Google makes it harder for your business to appear in search results by prioritizing Google Ads and No-Click Searches. As a result, you may have seen a reduction in organic web traffic. This means that 1) search engine optimization is more important than ever, and 2) having a Google My Business (GMB) listing alongside your website is essential.
What is Google My Business?
If a consumer Googles your business, especially on a mobile device, the GMB listing will usually show up first. A GMB listing puts important information front and centre (i.e. business hours, phone number and website), enables your business to show up on Google Maps, collects and manages reviews, and more, with new features being added regularly.
Social Proof
You can hype up your business, but customer reviews are more powerful. In fact, 93% of consumers say online reviews will impact their buying decision. Positive reviews on GMB provide social proof that your business is genuine, that your product or service will provide value and is a worthwhile investment.
According to Renolon, 46% of all Google searches have local intent, and 80% of local searches lead to a conversion within a day. The conversions for local intent searches (such as “near me” or looking for businesses within an area) are typically through GMB listings, by clicking the “call” button, visiting your website, etc. It’s therefore important to not only have a GMB listing but ensure you have it as filled out as possible.
Additional Features
Google is investing more time and money into GMB to provide a valuable resource for consumers and businesses alike. The most recent features include the following:
- The ability to post business updates, similar to a Facebook feed.
- A space for consumers to ask questions about your business and answer them publicly.
- Direct messaging through Google.
- Appointment bookings through GMB.
If you don’t have a GMB listing, you’re missing out. We encourage you to create a GMB listing today and keep it up to date with your latest information.
