More and more businesses are beginning to realize the benefits that Google Maps can have on their online performance. This article will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to add your business to Google Maps.
What is Google Maps?
Before we get into the steps you need to take to get your business on Google Maps, let’s first get to know what Google Maps is and what it can do to help your business grow. Google Maps is a web-mapping service developed by Google that gives you aerial images, satellite photography, street views and 360-degree shots of anywhere in the world. These images allow you to view streets and traffic situations. This also means that, as a business, users can find your location with ease.
Why does my business need to be on Google Maps?
The Google Maps service helps to reach out to customers that otherwise might not have heard about your business. It helps customers find your specific business location and enables them to reach you physically with a very precise directional map. And, in terms of local SEO, Google Maps will help your service to come up first in Google for users nearby.
How do I get my business on Google Maps?
In short, Google Maps gives you visibility, clarity and insight. Plus, it will not cost you a thing to get listed. So, if you’re ready, let’s find out how you can get your business on Google Maps.
Step 1: Create an account on Google Business
The first thing you need to do is to set up a Google Business account. If you already have a Google account, then log into it to get started.
Remember, creating a Google Business Account is free. It does not take long to set up your account – usually about three minutes. All you have to do is head to www.google.com and click the “Sign In” button located at the top right-hand corner of your screen. Follow the instructions to set up a business account by filling in all the required information. Be sure to read Google’s Privacy Terms And Conditions and select “I Agree” to continue.
Step 2: Register your company
To register your business, go to www.google.com/business. Locate the “Manage Now” button at the top right corner of your screen and click on it. This will guide you through the process of registering your company.
Fill in all the necessary information about your business. Be sure to fill in the right information as inaccurate details will cause issues further down the line. If you do not have a physical location for your business, no worries. There is a button for “If You Don’t Have a Location Customers Can Visit.” Click on this block instead and follow the further instructions. Your business will still appear on Google Maps even if you do not have a physical office.
Step 3: Verify your business information
If you have followed all the requirements given and filled in all necessary information, then congratulations, your Google Business account has been created! But, there are still a few more things that you need to do.
First, you need to verify your business information for the purposes of proving it is a legitimate business. Verifying your business on Google Business can take up to a couple of weeks, so patience may be needed here. There are two ways by which this may happen – through your email or through a mobile phone alert. If you receive your verification through the latter, then it will be much faster.
The verification stage is very important. Aside from the security purposes, it will help you to track and monitor your sales through Google Analytics. You will also be able to receive reviews from your customers about your service. This is very important to you as a business owner.
Step 4: Google My Business dashboard
Now that we have the hard part out of the way, return to your business dashboard. It’s time to decide on what kind of business information you will like to display on Google Maps. To do this, go to your dashboard and click on the “Info” button. The information that you choose to enter will be made visible when your business is searched on Google Maps. Thus, it is very important that you pay attention to the kind of information that you display. You also have the freedom to edit or update this information whenever you choose to.
Step 5: Explore
At this point, a “congratulations!” is well deserved as you have completed the process. Now you can sit back and explore the numerous benefits and opportunities that Google Maps have to offer. The possibilities are endless.
To Summarize
In conclusion, getting your business listed on Google Maps is an important step to take if you want to take your business to the next level. The platform will open your business up to millions of people who will be able to know not only what your business does, but where they can find you. And, the great thing is, you do not have to pay anything to get this done. The process is entirely free and very easy to do.
If you are keen to learn more about improving your business’ visibility on Google, get in touch with us today. We are an Digital agency with a passion for getting you in front of the right visitors.