Putting your business on Google is a great way to increase visibility and attract new customers. The process involves creating a Google My Business account, verifying your business information, and optimizing your listing for search engines. With these simple steps, you can make it easier for potential customers to find you online.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Put Your Business on Google
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly talk about why this is important. Having your business listed on Google increases your online presence, making it easier for customers to find you when they search for products or services you offer. Ready to get started?
Step 1: Create a Google My Business Account
Sign up for a free account on the Google My Business website.
Creating a Google My Business account is the first step in the process. This account will hold all your business information and will be the basis for your listing. Make sure you have all the necessary details about your business on hand, like your address, phone number, and business hours.
Step 2: Verify Your Business
Complete the verification process to confirm your business’s physical location.
Google wants to make sure that your business is legitimate and located where you say it is. Verification usually involves receiving a postcard in the mail with a code that you’ll enter into your Google My Business account.
Step 3: Optimize Your Listing
Add photos, descriptions, and other details to make your business stand out.
Now that your business is verified, it’s time to make your listing shine. Add high-quality photos of your business, a detailed description, and any other information that might be helpful for potential customers. The more complete your listing is, the better.
Step 4: Encourage Reviews
Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google listing.
Reviews can make a world of difference for your business. They not only provide social proof for potential customers but also can help your search ranking on Google. Don’t be shy about asking customers to leave a review after a positive experience.
Step 5: Keep Your Information Updated
Regularly update your business hours, contact information, and other details as needed.
Things change, and it’s essential to keep your business information up to date. Regularly check your listing and make updates whenever necessary, like if you change your hours for a holiday or move to a new location.
After completing these steps, your business will be visible on Google, including on Google Maps and in search results. This can lead to increased traffic, both online and in-person, and help grow your business.
Tips for Putting Your Business on Google
- Use a consistent name and address across all your online listings to improve your search ranking.
- Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, to show that you value customer feedback.
- Use relevant keywords in your business description to help customers find you.
- Take advantage of Google My Business features like posts and messaging to engage with customers.
- Monitor your listing regularly to ensure all information is accurate and up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my business to appear on Google?
Once you’ve verified your business, it can take a few days for your listing to appear on Google.
Verification is the step that takes the longest, and the timing can vary depending on how quickly you receive the postcard. After that, it should be relatively quick for your listing to go live.
Can I put my business on Google without a physical location?
Yes, you can list a service area instead of a physical address if you serve customers at their locations.
Google understands that not all businesses have a storefront. Service-based businesses can list the areas they serve, which helps customers know if they’re within your service range.
How much does it cost to put my business on Google?
Listing your business on Google is completely free.
Google My Business is a free tool provided by Google. There are no fees to create a listing, add information, or maintain your profile.
Can I manage my Google My Business account from my phone?
Yes, there’s a Google My Business app that lets you manage your listing on the go.
The app is handy for making quick updates, responding to reviews, and even posting updates or offers directly from your phone.
What if someone else has already claimed my business on Google?
You can request ownership of the listing through Google My Business.
If you find that your business is already listed and claimed by someone else, Google provides a process to request ownership. You’ll need to prove that you’re the rightful owner of the business to take control of the listing.
Summary
- Create a Google My Business account.
- Verify your business.
- Optimize your listing with details and photos.
- Encourage customers to leave reviews.
- Keep your information updated.
Conclusion
Getting your business listed on Google is a critical step in today’s digital world. It’s a simple and free way to increase your online presence and make it easier for customers to find you. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to putting your business on Google and reaping the benefits it brings. Remember, maintaining your listing is just as important as setting it up. Keep your information updated, engage with your customers, and watch your business grow. If you’re not on Google yet, what are you waiting for? Get started today and give your business the online boost it deserves.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.