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Having your business listed on Google isn’t just about visibility—it’s about building trust and credibility with your customers. Imagine potential clients easily finding your business and feeling confident in your services from the start. That’s the power of a well-managed Google business profile. But, in this process, learning how to claim your business on Google is a crucial step.
In this guide, we’ll take you through each step, from setting up your profile to verifying your business, ensuring you can harness the full potential of Google’s platform. Ready to elevate your online presence? Let’s dive in!
What Is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free and user-friendly tool that aids businesses in managing their online presence across Google platforms. By verifying your business and editing its information, you can leverage visibility and make it easier for customers to find you. Here’s what GBP offers:
- Take Control of Your Information: GBP allows you to manage the details that appear when users look for your business on Google Search and Maps. This includes your operating hours, website, and street address, giving you the power to present your business in the best light.
- Engage with Your Customers: GBP is not just a tool for managing information; it’s a platform for interaction. You can read and give your response to customer reviews, and post photos that showcase your services. Businesses that actively use these features often see a significant increase in engagement.
- Gain Valuable Insights: GBP provides you with insights about how customers find your business. You can track the performance of your Smart campaigns, learn about customer search behaviors and origins, and even see how many calls you receive directly from local search results. These insights can help you understand your customer base and improve your marketing strategies.
Why Is It Important to Claim Your Business on Google?
Claiming your business on Google is crucial for several reasons:
- Cost-Free Presence: Google is a dominant search engine with billions of daily searches. Claiming your business for free ensures you establish an online presence on this powerful platform without additional costs.
- Builds Consumer Trust: By claiming and managing your listing, you provide accurate information, including photos, hours, and services. This builds credibility and reassures potential customers, making them more likely to trust and engage with your business.
- Attracts Local Customers: A claimed listing helps new or visiting customers find you easily. This expanded visibility can lead to increased foot traffic and revenue, attracting customers who might not have discovered you otherwise.
- Enhances SEO: Claiming your business on Google adds valuable information like images and links, which improves your search engine ranking. This makes it easier for customers to find your website, social media, and online store.
- Manages Reviews: With a claimed listing, you can monitor and respond to customer reviews. Managing reviews is essential since studies show that 88% of consumers trust online reviews (2014 survey) as much as personal recommendations. So, addressing reviews helps maintain your reputation and improves customer satisfaction.
How To Claim Your Business On Google
Step 1: Open https://www.google.com/business/
Visit Google Business in your web browser to manage your business listing and update your information.
Step 2: Click on “Manage Now”
On the Google Business homepage, locate and click “Manage Now”. You will be directed to the login or sign-up page (if you are not already logged in).
Step 3: Log in to Your Google Account
- Fill in your Google account credentials to log in.
- If you do not have a Google account, click “Create account”.
- Follow the instructions to set up a new account.
Step 4: Enter Your Business Name
- In the provided field, type the exact name of your business and select from the drop down menu.
- Click “Continue”.
Step 5: Click on “Manage Now”
Click “Manage Now” to proceed with claiming your business on Google.
Step 6: Select a Verification Option
To claim your business on Google, start by choosing a verification method. This process confirms that you are authorized to manage the business profile and ensures the accuracy of your information. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Standard Verification Methods:
- Phone or Text: Receive a verification code via call or SMS.
- Email: Confirm your business through an email link.
- Video Recording: Submit a video showing your business location and operations.
- Live Video Call: Verify in real-time with a Google representative.
- Mail: Receive a postcard with a verification code at your business address.
Instant Verification Methods:
- Google Search Console: If your website is verified in the Search Console, you might get instant verification for your profile.
Bulk Verification:
You can use bulk verification for efficiency if you manage 10 or more locations for the same business.
You can follow the following steps to verify:
- Choose the verification method that is available for your business category and location.
- Complete the process as guided, which might include multiple methods.
- Verification can take up to 5 business days. If unsuccessful, try another method.
- Once verified, your business info will update across Google, allowing you to connect with customers and manage your profile effectively.
Wrapping Up
So, by following the outlined steps, you understand how to claim business on Google, ensuring accurate representation and easy accessibility by potential customers. As you complete each step, you’ll gain control over your business information, making it easier to connect with your audience and manage feedback effectively.
FAQs
How do I claim my Google business listing?
Claiming your Google business listing involves following steps:
- Step 1: Open https://www.google.com/business/.
- Step 2: Click on “Manage Now”.
- Step 3: Log in to your Google account.
- Step 4: Enter your business name.
- Step 5: Click on “Manage Now”
- Step 6: Select a Verification Option
How much does it cost to claim a business on Google?
Claiming a business on Google is completely free of charge.
What does claiming a business on Google mean?
Claiming a business on Google means verifying and managing your business’s information on Google Search and Maps, enhancing visibility and credibility.
How long does it take to claim your business on Google?
The time it takes to claim your business on Google can vary depending on the verification method chosen. It can take two weeks for postcard verification. However, most businesses receive verification within seven business days.
How do you know if Google My Business is claimed?
You can check if your Google My Business listing is claimed by attempting to log in to your Google Business account. If you have access, your listing is claimed; if not, it may still be unclaimed.
Why should I claim my business on Google?
Claiming your business on Google enhances your online visibility, builds consumer trust, attracts local customers, improves SEO, and allows you to manage customer reviews effectively.
