If you’re a business owner, you probably already know how important it is to be visible online. But how do you get your business on Google? It’s one of the first questions entrepreneurs ask when trying to grow their business. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Getting your business on Google isn’t just about having a website. It involves taking a series of actions that can help you appear on Google Search, Google Maps, and other Google platforms. And the good news? It’s easier than you think with the right approach and tools.
In this article, we will cover:
- Why you need to be on Google
- The basics of Local SEO
- How to set up your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business)
- Other steps to improve your Google visibility
- How a Local SEO service can help you
Why You Need to Be on Google
Google is the most widely used search engine in the world. When people are looking for a product or service, chances are they’ll search for it on Google. In fact:
- 97% of people learn about a local business online
- 46% of all Google searches are looking for local information
- 88% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
By getting your business listed on Google, you can appear in local search results. This means more people will find you when they search for businesses like yours near them.
What is Local SEO?
Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) refers to the practice of improving your online presence to show up in local search results. It’s different from regular SEO because it focuses specifically on your business’s location. When done right, Local SEO can help you get in front of potential customers who are close to you and ready to make a purchase.
Key elements of Local SEO include:
- Optimizing your website for local keywords: These are search terms that include your location, like “plumber in [city name]” or “best pizza near me.”
- Getting reviews from customers: Positive reviews on Google can boost your ranking.
- Building local citations: These are mentions of your business on other websites (like local directories).
- Optimizing your Google Business Profile: This is the most important step!
How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile
Getting your business listed on Google starts with creating and optimizing your Google Business Profile. This free tool allows you to manage your business information and appear in local search results and Google Maps.
Step 1: Sign Up for Google Business Profile
If you haven’t already, go to Google Business Profile and sign up using your Google account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create one first.
Step 2: Enter Your Business Details
Once you’ve signed in, Google will ask you to provide the following information:
- Business name: Make sure it matches the name you use on your website and other online platforms.
- Business address: This is where customers can find you. If you don’t have a physical store or office, you can still list your service areas.
- Business phone number: Include a phone number where customers can reach you.
- Website: Add your website’s URL.
Make sure all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Consistency is key in Local SEO.
Step 3: Choose Your Business Category
Google will ask you to select a category that best describes your business. This helps Google understand what type of business you are and match you with relevant searches. Choose the most relevant category—if you’re unsure, check what categories other businesses in your industry are using.
Step 4: Verify Your Business
Google will need to verify your business to make sure it’s legitimate. The most common way is by sending a postcard with a verification code to your business address. You’ll enter this code online to confirm your location.
Once your business is verified, it will appear on Google Search and Google Maps.
Step 5: Add Photos and Videos
Adding photos to your Google Business Profile helps you stand out and attract more customers. Upload high-quality photos of your business, products, or services. Studies show that businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to their websites.
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Setting up your Google Business Profile is just the beginning. To make sure your business stands out in local searches, you need to optimize your profile. Here’s how:
1. Complete Your Profile
Fill in every section of your profile. Include:
- Hours of operation: Let customers know when you’re available.
- Products and services: Describe what you offer in detail.
- Business description: Write a clear, concise description of your business.
The more complete your profile, the more likely Google will trust you and show your business to local searchers.
2. Add High-Quality Photos
As mentioned earlier, businesses with photos get more attention. Update your profile regularly with fresh photos, including:
- Exterior and interior shots of your business
- Photos of your products or services in action
- Team photos, if applicable
- Event photos, if you host any
3. Request Reviews from Customers
Reviews are a major ranking factor in Local SEO. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile. Here’s why:
- More reviews: The more positive reviews you have, the higher your business will rank.
- Better visibility: Reviews help customers find and trust you.
- Customer feedback: Reviews give you a chance to engage with your customers and show appreciation.
Responding to reviews (both positive and negative) shows that you care about customer feedback. This can help build your reputation.
4. Use Posts to Engage Customers
Google allows businesses to post updates directly on their profile. These posts can include:
- Promotions or offers
- Events or special announcements
- New products or services
- Helpful tips
Posting regularly keeps your profile fresh and encourages people to click on your listing.
Other Ways to Get Your Business on Google
While setting up and optimizing your Google Business Profile is the first step, it’s not the only way to increase your Google visibility. Here are some other things you can do:
1. Optimize Your Website for Local SEO
To further boost your chances of showing up on Google, optimize your website for Local SEO. Here’s how:
- Include local keywords: Use your city or region in key areas of your website like titles, headers, and meta descriptions.
- Create location-specific pages: If you serve multiple areas, create separate pages for each location.
- Use schema markup: This is a special code that helps search engines understand your business better.
2. Get Listed on Local Directories
In addition to Google, many other local business directories can help you get discovered. These include platforms like:
- Yelp
- Bing Places
- Yellow Pages
Make sure your business is listed on these directories, and keep your information consistent across all platforms.
3. Build Local Citations
Citations are online mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP). They help Google verify your business’s legitimacy and improve your rankings.
You can build citations by getting listed on industry-specific websites, local blogs, and other trusted platforms.
4. Create Content Around Local Topics
Create blog posts or videos that address local topics. For example:
- “Best pizza in [city name]”
- “Top 10 things to do in [city name]”
- “How to choose a [service] in [city name]”
This can help you show up for local search terms and position your business as an authority in your area.
How a Local SEO Service Can Help You
If all of this seems like a lot of work, a Local SEO service can make the process easier for you. Local SEO experts specialize in optimizing your online presence to help you rank higher in local search results.
Here’s how a Local SEO service can benefit your business:
- Complete Google Business Profile optimization: They’ll ensure your profile is fully optimized and consistently updated.
- Local keyword research: Experts can find the best keywords for your business and incorporate them into your content.
- Review management: They can help you get more reviews and manage your online reputation.
- Citation building: Local SEO services can help you get listed on other important directories.
- Content creation: They can help you create content that attracts local customers.
By investing in Local SEO, you can save time and focus on running your business, while professionals work on getting you the visibility you need.
Conclusion
Getting your business on Google is essential for success in today’s digital world. By following these steps, you can create a strong online presence and make it easier for potential customers to find you. Whether you’re setting up your Google Business Profile, optimizing your website, or using a Local SEO service, each step can help you rank higher and attract more customers.
Start today and watch your business grow!
