Google is here to stay and remains the 800-lb gorilla in the room, dominating online searches for businesses. Google thrives when businesses utilize Google Business Listing, Google Maps, Google Ads, Google Analytics, Google Reviews and more. As business owners, it can be frustrating to Google your services only to find that lesser competitors outrank you. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, most people don’t have the time to sift through all companies that offer services. Customers, like you, are busy and tend to choose businesses that appear at the top of the search results. For your business to survive, it needs to be there.
Businesses should dedicate time to optimizing their Google presence. Regularly update your Google Business profile with fresh information, including new photos of your products, your staff, location and services offered. Post FAQs, videos, and other content to create a better user experience, helping your business stand out. These efforts make it easier for customers to find you “online,” as some like to say. Don’t forget the power of Google Reviews. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive feedback, and if things don’t go perfectly, invite dissatisfied customers to speak with you directly so you can address their concerns.
Too often, businesses neglect their Google Business profile, focusing instead on social media. While social media is important for engagement, your Google Business profile deserves just as much attention. Social media creates visibility, but your Google profile enhances searchability. Marketing should be a continuous process—the more effort you put in, the greater your chances of success. Remember, results won’t happen overnight, but with persistence, your rankings will improve, leading to more calls, more recognition, and less need to spend on advertising to attract new business.
Getting your Google presence in order can be challenging. Sometimes, the process has already been started, but the registered email belongs to a former employee, requiring you to reclaim ownership of the account. While this can be time-consuming and frustrating, patience pays off. Follow Google’s outlined steps carefully. They may require additional information, and while their process isn’t terrible, don’t expect human assistance. Google relies heavily on automated systems, but with persistence, you can get the job done.
(An informative article from the Chamber’s Small Business Council member Deynoodt Marketing.)