The Ultimate Guide on How to Claim Your Google My Business Listing and Why You Should

What Is a Google My Business Listing?

Google My Business is a free listing service provided by Google that lets you create business listings to get your company information and make it easily accessible across the web. It’s like having your own mini-website on Google for FREE!

The best part? If someone searches for your business, they’ll see it right at the top of their local search results.

For example, do you want to be the top listing in Google when someone searches for “general contractor Denver”?

Of course. And that’s why Google My Business listings are so important. 

How to Claim Your Google My Business Listing – Step-By-Step Tutorial

Claiming your business on Google is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. You don’t need any expensive software or tools, just an active internet connection and basic information about your company. 

If you don’t already have a Google My Business profile for your company or brand, the procedure will take a little longer. 

Here, I’ll teach you how to set up a Google My Business listing (GMB listing), claim your business, and verify it.

Create a Google Account For Your Local Company

To establish a new account, go to https://www.google.com/business/ . Log in using your username and password if you already have an account. If applicable, you must provide information such as the name of your business, industry category, and delivery or service area. 

You’ll also need to submit contact information for yourself, including the company website and address.

Navigate to Google Maps

Go to https://www.google.com/ and search your company name and city into the search bar. Select Google Maps from the drop-down menu. 

Anyone may add a business to Google, so you can already see yours listed here. If that’s the case, go on to the next section to claim your company.

Add Your Physical Business Location Where You’d Want to Have a Presence

If your company does not appear in the previous step, you must add it. To add a missing place, scroll to the left of the search bar and click on the three bars. 

Fill out the form with pertinent business information, including a physical location and contact information. You may either list your home address or another address where you conduct business.

Confirmation Will Be Sent to You

After submitting your request, Google will send you a postcard to the physical address you listed which typically takes about 5 business days to receive. Once you get the postcard, you can log back in to Google My Business, enter the code and you have verified the listing. It might take 24 hours to appear on search and maps. You may access the listing using the provided URL to continue.

How to Get Your Business Claimed on Google

You may claim a Google My Business account once you’ve created one and your company appears in the Google business listings. While anybody can add a company to Google, claiming it gives you control over all data.

All you have to do is follow these steps:

Find Your Business on Google Maps.

After you’ve confirmed your Google My Business listing, go to Google Maps or the confirmation email’s link to locate your company.

Select “Claim This Business”

In the lower right-hand corner of the map, you’ll see menu choices. Fill out the required information by clicking on “claim this business.” You’ll have the option to update the business name or correct any incorrect contact information.

Finish and Verify

If you start from scratch, the company will be regarded as your own. If someone else created the listing, you’d have to assure yourself that you’re the business owner. Follow the procedures in the next section.

How to Verify When Claiming Your Business

The verification process is quick and easy. You can get instant verification by setting up your business using Google Search Console, or you may choose to have an email sent with instructions on how to proceed at any time of day.

If your business uses a landline, you will receive the verification code via phone call. But if not, Google can send an SMS (text message) to any mobile number on file. 

Local businesses can verify their contact information by calling, texting, or emailing Google. A phone call is the quickest option for verifying this information with them; it’s also possible to receive codes via your business’ preferred communication channel (email address or postal mail).

Why Should You Claim Your Google My Business Listing Today?

In this era of information overload, it’s hard to stand out amongst competitors. And if you’re reading this article right now, there’s a good chance that listing on Google was something you’ve considered before.

This free service is an easy way for customers to find out more about your company and make sure they reach you when they need help from a professional.

Following are the reason we think you should claim your business on Google My Business:

It’s Free of Cost

Did you notice it?

Yes, Google My Business is a free service. So you don’t need to worry about paying any monthly fees to claim your listing. That’s right; there are no hidden costs involved!

It’s an Effective Search Ranking Strategy

You may already know the importance of Search engine optimization (mainly local SEO) but let me tell you that Google My Business listings play a significant role in boosting your website rankings.

By claiming your listing on GMB, not only do you make it easier for customers to find you on the web, but you also give yourself an edge over competitors by appearing higher up on SERPs (search engine results pages).

Easier for Customers to Find You Online

Once you have claimed your Google My Business listing, the next step is to start working on it. Add photos, videos, and more in order to help customers find you when they search for your industry keywords.

As a result, not only will your website show up higher in SERPs, but people will be able to identify you faster as well.

Want customers to find you faster? Perhaps Facebook Advertising is an option.

Appearance in Geographical Search

If you have a local business, your listing on Google My Business will be shown on the region’s map. This is a smart way to catch the attention of a large number of potential customers in your area.

A lot can be said about how important it is to have knowledge that only experience gives you, but you have to get it right the first time when it comes to marketing and branding.

Whether you’re an established business or just starting out your online presence, you need a Google My Business listing in order to get more leads and sales for your business. It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to using this service simply because of its effectiveness.

Being able to create a listing for your company is the best way to attract new customers, especially if they are searching for you or your industry keywords.

Google Reviews Help You Get More Customers

Reviews are one of the most influential factors in determining whether or not someone will purchase a service

And what’s even better is that Google uses them as one of the main ranking factors when deciding search results. So it goes without saying that you need to do your best to get as many reviews as possible for your business on Google MyBusiness.

Google My Business Listing FAQs

Is Google business listing free?

Yes, it is absolutely free of cost.

Do I need to be a Google certified professional to create my listing?

No, that’s not necessary as you just need an active Gmail account, and you can create one for your business.

Is Google My Business the same as Google listing?

No, Google My Business is Google Local Listing, whereas the overall placement on SERP is referred to as Google listing.

Conclusion

If you own a business or you’re thinking of starting one, claiming your Google My Business listing should be something that’s on your radar because it’s completely free of cost and can have a significant impact on your website.

Even if you’re not ready to take the plunge just yet, it’s still very smart to know about this service because customers are always searching for reliable professionals online that can help them with their problems.

It’s easy to see why there is so much buzz around using Google My Business listings because there are so many benefits that come along with it.

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SocialManas Digital Marketing Agency is a full-service digital marketing agency in Bethel, ME with over 20 years of experience. We specialize in social media management, website development and facebook advertising.