Last Updated on: 29th August 2024, 11:46 am
With over 1 billion people using Google Maps to find businesses, not having your business listed could mean losing out on a lot of potential customers. Here are 9 easy steps to add your business on Google Maps
The Best Guide to Add Your Business on Google Maps
1. Log in to Your Google My Business Page
In case you still don’t have a Google My Business profile, learn how to list your business on Google here.
2. Add New Location
On the main dashboard, click ‘Add New Location’ on the left sidebar panel.
3. Enter Business Name
Next, enter your business name and click on ‘Next.
4. Add Business Category
Enter your business category. If you already have a Google My Business listing, the category will be pre-filled. Though you still have the option to edit it. Select the correct or most relevant category and click on ‘Next.
5. Point Exact Location
Next, Google will show a map of the area of the address you indicated. Drag the pin to the exact location of your business and click on Next.
6. Enter Address
In the next step, enter your business address and click on Next.
7. Add Other Information
Enter your business phone number and website. This information is optional. Then, click on Next to continue.
8. Verify Connection
Google will ask you to verify your connection with the business. Without verification, your business will not be listed on Google Maps. Click Finish to verify.
9. Add Other Information
You can choose a postcard with a verification ID sent by mail to the address you indicated. If you’ve provided your business phone number, you’ll also have the option of verifying your business through a telephone call.
Once verification is done, your business listing will go live on Google Maps. Users will be able to locate and get directions to your business, leave reviews, view photos, and other details. Then, you’ll be able to respond to reviews, create promotional posts, and track business analytics such as search volume, the number of times directions to your business were requested, etc.
How Can I Grow My Home Business Online After Listing It on Google Maps?
To expand your home business online after registering it on Google Maps, start by enhancing its visibility and attracting more potential customers. A company like ACU Web can be very useful in this process. They focus on converting online searches into actual sales, using key strategies like creating a dynamic, SEO-optimized website to effectively showcase your services or products.
Additionally, they can manage and refine your Google Ads campaigns, aiming to increase your business’s exposure to a broader audience. You can initiate this growth journey by scheduling a free consultation with ACU Web. They are reachable at their phone number 800.954.3921 or through their online contact options.
Should I Add My Home Address or Set a Service Area When Listing My Business on Google Maps?
When deciding whether to add a home address or establish a service area for your business on Google Maps, consider your specific needs. If clients often need to visit your location—for instance, to use specialized equipment or attend classes—it is advantageous to list your home address. This will make it easier for clients to find you.
However, if you prefer not to disclose your home address publicly, you can opt to define a service area instead. By doing this, Google Maps will show a generalized area that you serve, rather than your specific home address, providing you with privacy while still allowing customers to know the area you operate in.
How Can I ensure My Business Appears in Map Results on Google?
To ensure your business appears in map results on Google, start by creating a Google Business Profile, which makes your business visible on Google Maps and search results. Here is a simplified guide to help you through the process:
- Create or Log Into a Google Account: Visit the Google Business website at https://google.com/business. If you don’t have a Google account, you’ll need to create one. If you already have an account, simply log in.
- Begin Registration: Choose the “Manage now” or “Add your business” option to start the process of registering your business.
- Enter Your Business Name: Input the name of your business as you want it to appear on Google Maps.
- Select Your Business Category: Choose a category that best fits your business to help Google classify your services or products.
- Add Your Location: If you have a physical location customers can visit, add your address. If you operate in a service area without a fixed location, you can specify the area(s) where you provide your services.
- Contact Information: Provide a phone number and a website URL so that potential customers can reach out to you.
- Service Details: You can specify particular services you offer, which can help in appearing for precise search queries.
- Business Hours: Input your operating hours so customers know when you’re available.
- Messaging Options: Choose if you want to allow customers to send messages directly through your Google Business Profile.
- Add a Description: Write a concise description about your business covering what you offer, what sets you apart, and any other relevant information.
- Upload Photos: Adding images of your premises, products, or services enhances your profile’s appeal and can influence higher engagement.
- Verification: Follow Google’s verification process to verify ownership of your business. This is typically done via a postcard sent to your business address, but options like phone or email verification might be available depending on your location.
- Manage Your Business Page: After verification, continuously manage and update your Business profile to keep information accurate and responsive to customer reviews and questions.
By following these steps, your business should not only appear on Google Maps but also start attracting more customers due to better visibility and credibility.
