As per the digital 2021 report by Hootsuite, Google holds more than 90% of the search engine market share, making it the world’s most visited site. Another research statistic by NetMarketShare states that close to 80% of all searches transpire on Google.

Formerly called Google Business Profile, Google My Business listings are an excellent way for small and large businesses in Perth and Melbourne to drive online traffic and attract new customers. By claiming and optimising your Google My Business listing, you can quickly drive local traffic to your website.

What’s Google My Business?

Did you know that 97% of people learn about a local business via the internet? And that 46% of all Google searches are related to local information. With these statistics, it is no wonder that Google is pushing local SEO even further.

Google My Business is a free, easy-to-use, user-friendly tool that helps businesses manage their online presence in Google Maps and Google Search. For example, when you search for SEO agency Perth, the GMB listing appears first, even before the organic results.

Key Features of Google My Business

Google My Business is a nifty compilation consisting of the salient points related to your business. It answers all the questions a potential customer will have pertaining to your business listing.
● Google Knowledge Panel: Displays key information related to your business, including hours of operation, address, website, directions and many more.
● Google Local Pack: In addition to your business, Google lists three more local business listings to help with the user’s search.
● Google Maps: With the address information, Google maps provides clear directions to the user, guiding potential customers to your doorstep.

Benefits of Google My Business

GMB connects users looking for merchandise and services with local businesses. Google My Business:
● Increases visibility
● Makes it easy for users to find your information
● Increases the online traffic to your website, social media platforms and ultimately your business
● Helps your business find its place on other pages and listings
● Gives potential customers a clear insight into your offerings
● A better shopping experience for the users

Optimise Your Google Business Listing

3.5 million searches are happening every day. Here are a few simple steps by which you can leverage your GMB for SEO.

Initial Setup – Ensure That Your Information is Accurate
The GMB knowledge card has everything a customer would want to know about local businesses including:
● Business name
● Business type
● Address
● Business hours
● Phone number
● Website (if any)
● Images
● Google Maps
● Ratings and Reviews

And more. Of these, the core business information is key to a successful listing. Google Search and Google Maps will index these to provide a basis for local Search Engine Optimisation.
The information provided on your GMB listing should be consistent with what’s provided on your website. Inconsistencies can negatively affect your search ranking.

Include Keywords in Your Profile

Use the right keywords in your listing to improve your chances of being found through Search Engine Optimisation. The right keywords will also increase relevance. Ensure that you do not stuff the keywords, or Google will most likely suspend you.

Google My Business Reviews

Reviews can be the deciding factor that converts potential customers in your favour. Good reviews also help increase ranking for SEO. Google has a direct link asking customers to leave reviews to make it easier for businesses.

On your end, always respond to reviews, both positive and negative. Did you know that 85% of people trust reviews as much as a personal recommendation?

Add Images and Videos of Your Business

Did you know that businesses with photos receive 35% more clicks to their website than businesses without images?

In addition to the photos of your storefront, add pictures of your service or product to attract potential customers. For example, if you are a graphic design agency Perth, ensure that you show off some of your most recent work. Also, add interior and exterior pictures of your storefront to make it easy for customers to spot your business.

Did you know that others can also add photos to your GMB listing? Encourage your customers to do so as it helps promote your brand and listing.