The two most popular resources consumers trust today when making a buying decision are customer reviews and Google search results. We, as consumers, inherently trust what other customers have to say about a business and if we're looking to know more about a business, we simply Google it. Therefore, it is no surprise that Google incorporates the two together to create one of the most powerful tool for businesses.
Google My Business is an easy and free method to make your business more discoverable both online and offline. By creating a business profile, you make it easier for customers to find information about your business including hours of operation, contact information and directions across multiple devices. In fact, a business profile is essential for local SEO. When consumers search for a product or service, the local search listings are the ones that dominate. These local search results are critical to your business. It also allows customers to review your business and for you to manage them.
The bottom line is your business must be listed on Google My Business if you want to be found online in a local search. A complete and functioning business profile can increase the success, for both your online and offline operation.
Let's now take a look at this infographic by the team at Headway Capital which outlines the essential of how and why of Google My Business listings, as well as optimizing and managing one for your small business.
Read: The small business guide to Google My Business
