Day by day, Business Owners recognize the importance of Online Presence; to expand their business, and to reach their customers.

Google is a worldwide search Engine, and now every digital marketing company in Egypt or any country knows the value of ranking on the first page of Google.

Google provides its customers with several fantastic and unique services, among them (GMB) or Google My Business.

Google My Business becomes more important day by day. In this article, we are going to prove that, to encourage you to create a Google My Business account now.

What is Google My Business?

Google My Business is also known as GMB and Google Places for Business.

Google My Business has been made especially for you in case you have a company or a physical shop, but you still need to GMB even if you don’t own a place now.

You can create a Google My Business account easily and it is completely free. It allows you to list your business location on both: local search results, and Google Maps.

Google My Business appears on the first page of search results; the box on the right side.

Why should you create Google My Business?

Here are some reasons why you should create Google My Business:

1- The First thing your customers notice:

As mentioned above; Google My Business appears on the right side of the first page of Google Search results, so; it is the first thing your customers notice. It provides people with some information like Your operating information, customers review, and more details.

2- Shows your services:

Google My Business can display your products and services.  It gives your customers the first impression of your products/ services.

3- Improves SEO:

Everyone now knows the importance of SEO for small businesses. Google My Business can improve your ranking on Google.

4- Google maps integration:

Google my business can integrate with Google maps. It provides customers with information about your business location and directions.

5- Direct Messages:

GMB allows your customers to get your contact information, and send messages directly to your company through phone or by email.

6- Important in Covid-19 pandemic:

Another reason to create a Google My Business account is the Covid-19 pandemic. Changes in working hours or closures can happen at any time, and you should keep your customers updated.

7- Track visits:

Google my business enables you to track calls and site visits.

8- Sharing the latest offers:

You can display your latest offers to your customers through photos and videos because you can upload up to 10 photos or videos to your Google My Business posts.

9- Improves your reach:

Google My Business allows people to write reviews about your business, so you can gain the trust of new customers.

10- Generates leads:

Google My Business is a good chance to boost your online presence and promote your business, which means increasing the number of your sales at the end.

The best ways to optimize Google My Business

Here is a set of guidelines about how to best optimize Google My Business:

1- Fill in the important information:

The first step to optimize Google My Business is to fill in the important information like:

• The name of your project.
• The Address.
• Website.
• Category.
• Your phone number.
• Your email.

2- Write the Right Description:

You can add up to 750 characters. Take time to write the right description for your business, and use the right Keywords -about 2 to 3 keywords- It’s your customers’ first impression.

3- Add posts:

You can add about 10 photos or videos, as Google My Business posts. Choosing the best ones to show the power of your business is going to be a very good step especially if you have an e-commerce website. Add photos of your interior, exterior, your team, and your logo.

4- Ask for Reviews:

Positive reviews are important to rank on Google. Ask your customer to write reviews about what they really feel about your business, this can help you gain new customers too.

5- Respond:

Respond to all of your customer’s reviews, the good and the bad reviews. Make them feel that they are your top priority. Clear the misunderstanding; promise them to do your best to improve your service. And to be honest, bad reviews can help you know your weak points; so you can fix them and improve your business.

6- Post regularly:

Post regularly and change information when needed. Also posting regularly can show Google that you are active.

7- Avoid the prohibited activities:

Google has a list of prohibited activities, so make sure to avoid them by providing the accurate and right information about your business.

How can Vocus help?

Vocus can guide you to the best Marketing Practices. Not only related to Google My Business, but also in general. If you ever need help with your business and best Marketing Strategies, we are always here.