Welcome back to Uncle Ron's Porch, where we're diving deep into the world of Google business profiles and how they can elevate your local business. This week, we’ve covered an array of topics—from the importance of reviews and regular posts to the significant role of videos and images. These are a few simple things that you can do to elevate your Google Business Profile.
Start with the Basics
Although not directly addressed in this episode, Uncle Ron starts with the assumption that you have the basics of your Google My Business Listing already done. In addition, since these episodes first aired, the Google business profiles have all moved to Google Maps.
Basic information that all business profiles should include:
- Business hours
- Business category
- Business description
- Business address
- Business details
- Business location/ physical location
- Holiday hours
When you are first desiring to claim your Google business profile, first you need to go online and fill out a form with your business address and zip code. Google will then mail you a postcard to that address with a verification code that will enable you to claim your listing. You will then be able to fill out all of your other relevant information, solicit reviews and update your profile regularly from your business dashboard. You can also set up Google Ads from this dashboard if you ever decide to run ads for your business.
Why Positive Reviews Matter
On the first day of our discussion, we emphasized the importance of customer reviews. Google business profiles are essential for establishing trust with potential customers in your target audience. As a business owner, you need to seek out customer reviews on a regular basis. Online reviews not only help prospective clients gauge the quality of a business but also impact local search rankings significantly and can be part of your SEO strategy.
In addition, a mix of reviews, including some less-than-perfect ones, can lend authenticity to your listing. This means that negative reviews aren’t the end of the world. They reflect real-life scenarios, and responding to them courteously and humbly can actually enhance your credibility. Uncle Ron highlighted that people leave reviews for various reasons; sometimes, even if the service doesn't meet their expectations, being kind and honest can turn the tide.
Automating and Responding to Reviews
The second day's focus was on responding to reviews—both good and bad. Engaging with reviews on your Google business profile shows that you care about your customers' feedback. Uncle Ron recommends using automation tools like Zapier to help manage these interactions efficiently. Responding positively to both positive and negative reviews will boost your online presence. Additionally, sharing them across your social media channels demonstrates social proof to potential customers and shows that you’re active and engaged in your business.
Remember, always handle negative reviews with grace. Acknowledge errors, apologize genuinely, and find ways to address the concerns raised.
Regular Posts on Your Google My Business Listing
Treat your Google business listing like a social media platform. Regular posts and updates to your business profile can keep your audience engaged and informed. Whether it’s a special promotion, an upcoming event, or simply an update on your business, consistent posting can make a big difference. Uncle Ron shared an example of an ice cream shop in St. Louis leveraged their proximity to a local soccer stadium to attract more customers by updating their business listing about street closures while ensuring they were still open.
Regular interaction, much like maintaining a healthy marriage, fosters a robust relationship with Google and helps your search engine optimization. Frequent and timely posts can ensure your business maintains online visibility and is relevant in local organic search results.
The Power of Images
High-quality photos and images are a potent tool for enhancing your Google business listing. Visual content can effectively communicate who you are and what you have to offer. Uncle Ron stressed that having a variety of pictures—both of the exterior and interior of your business—can make a significant impact. An eye catching cover photo will make your business stand out.
Regularly adding pictures can potentially boost your Google business profile's ranking over time. In addition, adding metadata descriptions to these images helps the Google search engine to understand and promote your content better. By visually showcasing your business, you build trust and make your Google My Business account more engaging.
Leveraging Videos
The last day’s focus was on videos. Short, compelling videos can set your business apart. These videos don't need to be high-budget productions. A 30-second clip with captions, showcasing your team or services, can significantly boost your online visibility to potential customers.
Most viewers will watch without sound, so make sure your videos are engaging even without audio. Videos can highlight various aspects of your business, from a skilled bartender to unique products. Incorporate bright colors and quick movements to capture attention. Remember to keep videos under 30 seconds, in 720p resolution or higher, and under 75 MB in size.
Daily Podcast Episodes for Business Growth
Uncle Ron's Porch is a daily podcast with short 6-8 minute episodes. Below are the episodes that this post is based on.
In Summary
Optimizing your Google business listing involves multiple strategies. Soliciting and managing reviews, making regular posts, using engaging images, and incorporating short videos all play pivotal roles. Uncle Ron's experience with his independent insurance agency in Dallas Fort Worth serves as a testament that while these efforts won't lead to overnight success, they foster long-term, sustainable growth.
Subscribe to Uncle Ron's Porch for more insights and tips, and don't forget to join our email list for a weekly summary and additional resources. Keep your business listing active and engaging, and watch as your local visibility and customer trust grow.
Happy listing!
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