5 min read • Marketing Tips

How to Use Google My Business to Attract Local Customers

Are you a small business owner looking to attract more local customers? If so, Google My Business (GMB) is one of the best tools you can use. It’s free, easy to set up, and incredibly effective.

But how exactly can you leverage GMB to reach more customers? Let’s dive into it step-by-step and explore how to maximize this platform to boost your local presence.

What is Google My Business?

Google My Business (now Google Business Profile) is a free tool that allows business owners to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. When potential customers search for your business or related services, your GMB profile appears, showcasing vital information.

This profile includes:

Your business name
Address
Phone number
Website
Hours of operation
Customer reviews
Photos

Why is Google My Business Important?

GMB is crucial for attracting local customers for several reasons:

Increased Visibility: Your business appears in local search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you.
Trust and Credibility: A well-maintained GMB profile builds trust with potential customers who see your business as legitimate and professional.
Customer Engagement: GMB allows you to interact with customers through reviews and Q&A, fostering relationships and encouraging repeat business.

Step 1: Create or Claim Your Google My Business Listing

The first step is to either create a new GMB listing or claim an existing one.

How to Create a Listing:

Go to the Google My Business website.
Click on “Manage now.”
Enter your business name and address.
Choose your business category.
Fill in your contact details and website.
Verify your listing through a postcard, phone call, or email (depending on your preference).

Claiming an Existing Listing:

If your business is already listed, simply search for it in GMB, click on “Claim this business,” and follow the verification steps.

Step 2: Optimize Your GMB Profile

Once your listing is live, it’s time to optimize it to attract more customers.

1. Complete Every Section:

Make sure you fill out every section of your GMB profile:

Business Description: Write a clear and engaging description that highlights what you do and what sets you apart.
Business Hours: Update your hours, including holiday hours, to avoid confusion.
Categories: Choose the most relevant categories to help Google understand your business.

2. Add High-Quality Photos:

Photos are essential for attracting customers. Include:

A logo to establish your brand.
Photos of your products or services.
Images of your location to give customers a feel for your business.
Staff photos to create a personal connection.

3. Use Posts to Engage Customers:

GMB allows you to post updates, promotions, and events. Regularly share posts to keep customers informed and engaged.

Share special offers: Discounts or promotions can drive traffic.
Announce events: Inform customers about upcoming events or workshops.
Post helpful content: Tips or articles related to your industry can position you as an expert.

Step 3: Manage Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are a crucial part of your GMB profile. They not only influence potential customers but also impact your ranking in local search results. Here’s how to manage them effectively:

1. Encourage Customers to Leave Reviews:

Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your GMB profile. You can do this by:

Sending follow-up emails after a purchase.
Including a link to your GMB listing on your website or social media.
Offering a small incentive, like a discount on their next purchase.

2. Respond to Reviews:

Engaging with customers shows that you value their feedback. Make sure to:

Respond promptly to both positive and negative reviews.
Thank customers for positive reviews.
Address any concerns raised in negative reviews professionally.

Step 4: Use the Q&A Feature

GMB has a Questions & Answers section where customers can ask about your business. You can:

Monitor Questions: Regularly check for new questions and respond promptly.
Add Frequently Asked Questions: Populate this section with common questions and answers to help potential customers.

This not only provides helpful information but also shows that you’re engaged and care about customer inquiries.

Step 5: Track Your Performance

GMB provides valuable insights into how your listing is performing. You can see:

How many people viewed your profile.
How they found you (search vs. maps).
Customer actions (visits, calls, requests for directions).

Use These Insights to Improve:

If you notice that most of your traffic comes from map searches, consider optimizing your location details.
If customers frequently call, ensure your phone number is visible and correct.

Step 6: Engage with Local Community

Engaging with your local community can boost your visibility and attract customers. Consider these strategies:

Participate in Local Events: Attend fairs, markets, or festivals to promote your business.
Sponsor Local Events: Sponsoring community events can increase brand awareness.
Collaborate with Other Local Businesses: Teaming up with other businesses can expand your reach.

Step 7: Use Google Ads

While GMB is free, investing in Google Ads can enhance your visibility. Consider using local targeting options to reach potential customers in your area.

Why Use Google Ads?

Immediate Visibility: Ads can place you at the top of search results.
Customizable Budget: You control how much you want to spend.
Targeted Audience: You can reach specific demographics and locations.

Final Thoughts

Google My Business is a powerful tool for attracting local customers. By creating and optimizing your profile, managing reviews, and engaging with your audience, you can significantly increase your visibility and credibility.

So, what are you waiting for? Start leveraging GMB today, and watch your customer base grow! Have you used Google My Business to attract customers? Share your experiences!