What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a platform developed by Google that allows businesses and organisations to build a comprehensive profile—for free—to make it easier for potential customers to find them either through Google Search or Google Maps.
If you want a more in-depth understanding of this topic, check out the FAQ section below:
Question #1: What does a Google My Business Profile look like?
This profile will display things such as:
- Your business name
- Your online reviews
- Your website
- A description of your business
- Photos of your business
- Directions to your business
- Your business contact information
In addition to all these, however, you will also be able to post photos, updates, and even offers, as well as respond to customer reviews.
Whenever a potential customer searches for your business on Google, they will be shown your full profile, which is designed to help them quickly learn more about your business, check your location, view your posts and photos, redeem your offers, make bookings, get in touch with you, or leave a review and rating.
Question #2: What are the benefits of creating a Google My Business profile?
The main benefit of creating this profile is that it provides you with increased visibility and reach. Instead of trying to compete against other regular search results for the potential customer’s attention, you can have your full business profile featured on Google’s search engine results pages (SERPs).
In addition to this, since your My Business Profile allows potential customers to interact with your business straight from Google’s SERPs, it makes them more likely to check out what you have to offer instead of continuing their search. It is just the easier option.
Question #3: If I have a website, do I still need to create this profile?
Technically, no, you do not need to create one if you already have a website, but there is really no reason not to. Again, the service is 100% free and it can help significantly boost your business’ visibility. You can even put the link to your website on your profile.
Question #4: Do I need a physical store to create a Google My Business profile?
No, you do not need a physical store to create one. Even if you run your entire operation out of your bedroom, you can still enjoy the benefits of having one.
The only real requirement for creating this profile is that you have a legitimate business—which brings us to the next point:
Question #5: How do I prove to Google that I have a legitimate business so I can create a Google My Business profile?
To prove to Google that you have a legitimate business so you can create this profile, all you have to do is go through the company’s verification process. You can verify your business via SMS or phone or by asking Google to send you a postcard at your business address (if you have a physical store).
Question #6: Why do I have to verify my business to use Google My Business?
Business owners need to verify their business to use Google My Business to protect themselves from random people falsely claiming ownership of their company or modifying their profile. Once your business is verified, you can rest assured that only you have full access to your profile.
Question #7: Does it come with a business email?
No, it does not come with a business email, but it allows you to use your personal email—which is not a good idea if you are looking to earn the trust of potential customers.
The good news is that it is super easy to create a business email with Google as well, and it does not cost a lot.