How to appear on Google Maps: Guide to position your business –

If we are clear about something, it is that Google offers a large number of tools that help to have excellent SEO if used correctly. In this case, we are talking about appearing as a means to better position your business, thanks to Local SEO.

Any local marketing strategy involves making use of a tool as necessary as Google Maps. Better known as a means to publicize your physical business, Google Maps provides all the information that users need to know about your business. So they can understand your services and purchase them easily.

So, if you are thinking of better positioning a physical business, we explain how to appear on Google Maps and get it to provide the necessary information. For that, continue reading and learn a step by step, so that you acquire all the benefits and an adequate positioning.

Why do you need to appear on Google Maps?

First of all, why should you appear on Google Maps as part of your marketing strategy? Easy. If your business offers a product or service that a number of users want, when it appears in a tool like Google Maps, users will see your business file. Those that will allow you to be able to acquire said service or product by being close to them.

Basically, it is one of the essential steps to improve the Local SEO of your business. Well, it provides essential information about your services to potential clients, near you. Which means that if a user searches for a hardware store in your city and your hardware store is on Google Maps, will be one of the visible options that the user can choose.

Google will take care of helping those potential customers reach you through their searches, as long as they are related. This way you can be more competitive and it is totally free, so it is essential to take it into account within your strategy.

How to appear on Google Maps?

Now we know that appearing on Google Maps can make a big difference in providing information to potential users. And we also know that it is essential if we want a business to be well positioned, but the question is: How to appear on Google Maps? You just have to follow these steps:

• Create a Google My Business account

To start this process, you need to create a Google My Business account to register everything about your business with Google. In case you are not in your Google account at the time of starting the process, you just have to log in and that’s it.

• Add your business name

Since Google may or may not have information about your business, you can add your business name using the two available options:

• “Claim your business”: An option for those companies about which Google already has some type of information. Generally you can do it when when placing the name of your company, Google offers you the suggestion and you only have to claim. If it does, check the information it offers and click “Next”.
• “Add your business”: If, on the other hand, Google does not yet have information, this is the option to enter the full name of the company and the requested data.

• Fill in your business information

Google will require all the essential information of your company and this is when you should be most careful. So all the data must match your website so you get better visibility. For this you need to provide information such as:

• Company address.
• Specific location within the map.
• Category or activity carried out by your company. Only the primary activity should be chosen, as Google will allow secondary activities to be added later.
• Contact information such as phone number and web address.

Once your Google My Business file is finished, Google will be in charge of verifying that you are the owner of the business you register. That way you will be able to appear on Google Maps and verification methods include:

• A letter with a pin code via postal mail (less recommended).
• Call or SMS with the verification code.

It is important to note that even with an immediate verification it is necessary to wait a few hours for Google to show your business.

• Check if you already appear in the search

After a few hours you will find that your business appears on Google Maps and also has all the information you provided. In addition, you have the option of being able to verify or change the information of some aspects such as schedules. In the same way you can incorporate new images and videos to keep your file updated.

How to position your business on Google Maps?

Now that your business has been able to appear on Google Maps, you need to know the means to position yourself in the best way. Achieving conversions in favor of your business. To do this, you must follow these simple steps:

• Include images of your products or services: Once you have implemented all the important information about your business, it is necessary to complement it with images. Remember that the best way to build trust is by previewing the services or products that can be obtained with your business, with quality images.
• Reply to each comment: It is necessary to respond to each of the comments, including the bad ones. So that potential customers see the interest of the company in offering solutions for those who did not have such an ideal experience. Also, avoid buying positive reviews that will harm your relationship with Google.
• Be part of a local business directory: If you join online directories focused on your business market, then you will be able to attract more customers.
• Exchange links with other businesses that are not your competition: If your company is just starting out and you have the opportunity to ally yourself with other businesses, do it. If they offer products that can complement your services or products, they can exchange links that help you acquire more customers.
• Select suitable keywords: Use tools that help you select the most appropriate keywords for your service or product.
• Use Google My Business statistics to improve your marketing strategy: Thanks to the analysis that this tool offers, you will be able to appear on Google Maps in a more effective way. Given the metrics it provides and the data.