What is Google My Business (GMB)?
Google is by far the most popular search engine globally, with over 92% market share. Having a Google My Business account on Google makes it simple to have your business appear in front of users and provide contact details that are correct and easy to access.
Google My Business is a platform for business owners to manage their online presence across the Google suite, from Google Search to Google Maps. This platform allows you to build, verify, and edit a business listing – this is how users find information on your all-important contact details, including how to visit your store or where to find your website.
What Does a Google My Business Listing Look Like?
Jump onto Google and search for a business. Now check out the profile on the right side of the results, this is what a typical GMB listing looks like. You can verify and edit the following details on a claimed business listing:
- Business name
- Address
- Phone number
- Website
- Opening hours
- Description
- Photos
- Products & Services
- Link for appointments
So, why is Google My Business Important for Local Businesses?
Google has reported that 46% of all searches have local intent and that business location is the main type of information sought after. By having an up-to-date listing, you can reach more leads, increase your brand awareness, and encourage more interactions including calls and bookings. Let’s consider why Google My Business is so important for businesses, especially those in and around your location:
Online exposure
Research from Brightlocal found that, on average, a local business receives 1260 views each month – that is a lot of people who are discovering you for the first time or searching for your business specifically. Not only does GMB allow for easy access to contact details, but this platform enables you to quickly share news, updates, offers, and more.
The power of reviews
On all GMB listings, customers can leave reviews instantly and without the need for filling out extensive surveys. People can leave you a 1-to-5-star rating, with or without a comment/photos. These reviews appear on your business profile and offer a strong trust signal for anyone who comes across your listing.
Currently, 79% of consumers say that they trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, now isn’t that something to think about? Keep your customers happy and encourage positive words to take advantage of the influence of reviews.
Increased leads
According to Google, businesses are 70% more likely to have interaction with users by having a GMB listing. This includes website and store traffic, phone calls, and even sales.
Educate & answer questions
GMB’s messaging feature allows you to chat directly with potential customers who find your profile in search results. The handy feature lets you quickly answer questions and help your current and potential customers. However, messaging is only available to profile owners who are responsive and active in answering questions, otherwise, Google automatically turns this feature off if you fail to reply within 24 hours!
Noteworthy Statistics on Google My Business
If you don’t have a GMB account, you are missing the opportunity to generate more traffic and business and differentiate yourself in Google. Here are some statistics to highlight the importance of being present on Google My Business:
- Every day, there are over 5 billion searches on Google, where 84% of searches are discovery and 16% are direct (Brightlocal).
- The first page of search results captures 71% of clicks and has even been reported to be as high as 92% in recent years (Forbes).
- 49% of businesses receive more than 1000 views on search every month (Brightlocal).
- On average, a business gets 59 actions from its GMB listing every month. Actions include traffic and clicks on a website, address, phone number, and making bookings (Smallbiztrends).
A Google My Business listing is often the first impression for users who see your business; ensure that essential, updated information is listed to appear on the right-hand side of search results. By verifying and editing your business’ GMB listing, you will be on your way to optimising your local marketing!
