If you Google your business name right now, what information would you find? Google My Business (GMB) lets you tell the world’s favourite search engine exactly what information you want displayed online. As you can see by the images below, a completed GMB account will show off your details on the search results page, Maps and on Google’s other products. Being in more places with the right information helps attract more of the right customers.
The thing is, claiming and verifying your Google My Business can be a little confusing. Our guide will take you through it step by step, as well as giving you some handy tips along the way.
Before you start…
You’ll want to either create or sign-in to your Google account. If you don’t already have an account, you can create a free account here. You can either put it under your own details or make an admin account for your business.
Now, back to creating your GMB. You’ll want to head to https://www.google.com/intl/en_au/business/ and click on the green Start Now button in the right hand corner of the page. You’re ready to begin!
Page 1: Business name
On the first page, you’ll be prompted to add your business name and read through Google’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. It’s important you spell your business name exactly how it’s displayed on other listings. Consistent name, address and phone numbers (NAP) will help with your search engine optimisation (NAP).
Page 2: Location
If you’ve clicked next, you’ll now be on the location page. Again, enter your address exactly as you do on your other listings, such as on www.localsearch.com.au. At the bottom of this page, you’ll notice a little truck graphic, a tick box and a message. If you have a shopfront, leave this box unticked. However, if customers can still visit an office or location of some sort for your business, but they cannot buy anything there, give it a tick (see image below for example). Then hit next.
When there are multiple businesses recognised by Google at an address—such as a complex—you may be asked to confirm if you are any of those businesses. If your business is on the list, simply select your name, otherwise you can continue to create an account.
Page 3: Category
You’re now on the category selection page. Keep in mind you won’t be able to enter just any industry. Google has a pre-set list of industries for you to select from. Start typing in what you believe is the best match for what you do or sell. You may have to make a few attempts if nothing relevant appears.
It’s important you select a category that sums up your business as a whole. While you may specialise in Dyno tuning, you’ll receive better results if you select mechanic. Once you’ve found your match, hit next again.
Page 4: Phone number and website
Here is where you list your phone number and website URL. Be sure to enter the same phone number you’ve put on your other listings. So, if you sometimes use your mobile and other times a landline, it’s best to choose your primary contact and go with that across all platforms.
Google is also kind enough to offer to create a free website for you if you don’t already have one. Keep in mind, this website will not be optimised for your target audience or be overly impressive. It’s just to get you online. For a more personalised website, you’ll want to chat to a specialised website designer and developer.
Page 5: Google communication
On the next page, Google will ask if you’d like them to send you updates on improving your search performance on their search engine. This can be very helpful, however, if you know you won’t read them, select ‘no’ to save yourself the hassle of having to unsubscribe later.
Page 6: Almost done
Nearly there! To reduce the number of incorrect data on their platform, Google will need you to verify your business account. Once you hit Finish, you’re telling Google you want to continue to the Verification process and want to use their service to help grow your business online.
Page 7: Verify Your Business
Google may present you with a few ways to verify you are the owner or account holder for the business, however normally they only offer to send you a postcard. The postcard may take a few weeks to arrive. Once you receive it, follow the link provided on the back and enter your verification code. Please note, the postcard below is an example only. The verification code is not real.
Now you’ve claimed your Google My Business listing and have verified your business, you can personalise your account. You can add extra Google Maps or Places locations (such as if you have multiple stores) update your photos and more.
Remember, if you ever change any of your business information, such as your business name, address or phone number, be sure to update your Google My Business account. We tell you why in our blog, Everyone Loves a Good Nap…Including Google.