How to set up your Google Business Profile

 

Introduction

In today's digital world, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. A Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is a free and easy tool that helps you manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. This increases your visibility to potential customers searching for the products or services you offer.

Here's a step-by-step guide to set up your Google Business Profile:

1. Claim or Create Your Profile:

• Head over to Google Business Profile. You'll need a Google account to proceed.
• If your business already has a listing, you can claim it. Otherwise, you can create a new profile.

2. Provide Accurate Business Information:

• Enter your business name exactly as it appears on your Business Registration Certificate (Businesses operating in Kenya must be registered by Business Registration Services.
• Select the most relevant business category that describes what you do.

3. Set Your Location:

• Indicate whether you have a physical location customers can visit.
• If you have a storefront, enter your complete address.
• For service-based businesses that don't have a physical location, you can choose to hide your address and set your service area.
• For new businesses you may need to add your location to Google Maps.

4. Add Contact Information:

• Include your phone number and website (if applicable). Google uses this information to verify your business, for example if your business name is 'My Business Kenya' ensure you have access to  @mybusinesskenya.com email address. NB - .com is one of the extensions on domains that you can use, there are multiple other extensions such as .cc, .org, .co.ke and so on. You can learn more about domain names on this guide
• Adding a phone number  - Allows customers to call you directly from your profile.

5. Verify Your Business:

• Google will send a confirmation email to @yourdomain.com with a verification code - Google does not verify businesses using phone call or text message anymore.
• Once you receive the code, enter it online to verify your ownership of the business. After this step your business will be visible to potential customers across Google.

6. Optimize Your Profile:

• Add Photos: Showcase your business with high-quality pictures of your storefront, team, products, or services.
• Write a Description: Craft a compelling description that highlights your unique selling points and what makes your business great. Google has a description generator to help you craft the most suitable description for your business.
• Manage Reviews: Encourage customers to leave reviews and respond to both positive and negative feedback in a professional manner.
• Regularly Update: Keep your profile updated with your current hours of operation, special offers, and any other relevant information.

By following these steps and optimizing your profile, you'll increase your chances of appearing at the top of local search results. A well-maintained Google Business Profile is a powerful tool to attract new customers and grow your business.

Looking for Help Managing Your Online Presence?

Creating and maintaining a strong Google Business Profile can be time-consuming. If you'd like help optimizing your online presence, consider reaching out to digital marketing agencies like Best Ed Creative Hub.

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, Best Ed Creative Hub offers a range of services including web design, content writing, and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) that can help you take your online marketing to the next level. You can find out more about our services on Instagram @bestedcreativehub or our Facebook page Best Ed Creative Hub or our website at www.onebested.cc.

Check Out More Articles to learn how to maximize your online potential and feel free to comment your views on the guide provided.