02 Aug Why Google My Business will be/ is bigger than any business directory
Google My Business is quickly becoming the number one way people search and find businesses. Whether you’re looking for a shoe store in your city or the best Italian restaurant, chances are you’ve noticed a Google business page hit the top of your page.
Over 77% of searches are done through Google, which is what makes Google My Business such a force. Having your business listed on Google ensures that you’re taking part in the leading search engine tool, helping your business get visibility when people search keywords relevant to your business.
If you’re not on Google My Business, you definitely should be. Here are five reasons we think Google My Business is becoming the biggest business directory.
Need help setting up Google My Business? Check out my previous blog!
1. It’s native to Google search
When people search for your business on Google, it will pop up automatically with a directory listing. This listing includes all of the relevant information people need to know, such as hours, phone numbers, websites, and address. On top of that, it has reviews and ratings as well, which people absolutely love to see.
The best part about it is that Google My Business pages rank at the top of most search pages now, making your business’ visibility high if people are searching for it. Look at the example below, a search of Burger Priest comes up with the business website as the first hit and the Google My Business page as the very next hit. People no longer have to sift through webpages to get address and contact information for your page.
2. Easy to use on mobile
When you’re searching for a business on mobile, you can interact with Google My Business page instantly. By clicking any of the buttons, such as call, website, or directions, you have everything you need right on the page. With just one click, you’re able to call a business, get more information, or get directions. On mobile, it’s especially beneficial as mobile users want quick and easy information and access when they’re on the go.
3. Google Map Integration
Google My Business is now fully integrated on Google Maps, making it easy to get directions to your business with the click of a button. The best part about this is the mobile experience. Users who search for something like “pizza” can now see relevant businesses and get all of the information instantly to shop around and choose the business they want.
4. Google reviews help your business rank higher for your industry
Google My Business listings allow customers to rank your business and leave a review, with a simple five-star rating option and an easy comment box. These reviews are counted when Google is considering your page ranking, and the more native reviews you have (reviews on your Google business page) the better you rank compared to your competitors.
Encourage your customers to leave Google reviews – this can be done by a suggestion via word of mouth or even a promotion or contest.
5. Google pulls your reviews from other websites
Google also publishes your business reviews from other pages such as Yelp, Yellow Pages, Hotels.com, Trip Advisor, and Facebook. A hotel’s Google Business Page will showcase reviews from relevant sites, such as Hotels.com and Trip Advisor while restaurants can pull from Open Table and Yelp.
It’s important to focus your customer reviews on the websites that are relevant to your business. See what Google is pulling from naturally and focus your efforts there over things like Facebook if it doesn’t make sense. Definitely focus the majority of your reviews on your Google page. But, be mindful of the conversations happening on other review sites.
Why not use Google My Business Pages?
As a small business, there’s really no reason not to leverage a Google My Business page. It’s free, boosts SEO, helps customers easily find you, and gives you more visibility against your competitors.
Need help setting up a Google Business page? We’d love to help!
Written by Brad Dalli
Founder and CEO of Dalli Digital