Over Half of Local Businesses Are Invisible Online: 

Is Yours One of Them?  

In a startling revelation, a 2021 survey by BrightLocal uncovered that a staggering 55.6% of local businesses fail to claim and optimize their Google Business Profile. This translates to more than half of all local businesses missing out on a golden opportunity to enhance their visibility and online presence in Google Maps and Search results. This negligence can have a detrimental impact on their ability to attract customers and thrive in the competitive digital landscape.

Several factors contribute to this widespread oversight:

1. Unawareness of Google Business Profile Significance: Many local businesses remain unaware of the pivotal role Google Business Profile plays in boosting online visibility and attracting customers.

2. Time and Resource Constraints: Creating and maintaining a Google Business Profile often requires time and resources that many small businesses lack.

3. Search Optimization Expertise Gap: Optimizing a Google Business Profile for search results demands a level of expertise that many local businesses may not possess.

For local businesses, claiming and optimizing their Google Business Profile is an essential step towards success. By doing so, they can reap a multitude of benefits:

1. Enhanced Visibility in Local Search Results: A well-optimized Google Business Profile increases a business's chances of appearing in relevant local search results, driving more traffic to their website and physical location.

2. Increased Website Traffic: By appearing prominently in local search results, businesses can attract more potential customers to their website, where they can learn more about the business's offerings and make informed decisions.

3. Lead and Sales Generation: Increased website traffic often translates into more leads and sales for local businesses, as potential customers engage with the business online and offline.

To harness the power of Google Business Profile, local businesses should follow these practical tips:

1. Create a Comprehensive and Accurate Profile: Ensure all profile information is accurate and up-to-date, including business name, address, phone number, website, and business hours.

2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords: Strategically integrate relevant keywords throughout the profile description, including business category, services offered, and geographic location.

3. Enrich with High-Quality Photos and Videos: Showcase the business's unique offerings and ambiance by adding engaging photos and videos that capture the essence of the brand.

4. Encourage Customer Reviews: Actively solicit positive reviews from satisfied customers, as positive feedback enhances credibility and attracts new customers.

5. Maintain Regular Profile Monitoring: Regularly monitor the profile for accuracy, respond to customer reviews promptly, and make necessary updates to ensure optimal performance.

Click on the link below for a list of 20+ articles about how to claim and optimize your Google Business Profile.  If you have any questions or need any help contact me today.

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How to Use Google My Business to Grow Your Business

This book is perfect for anyone who relies on Google for leads and wants to make their digital presence the best. You will receive quick, to-the-point, and well-organized information for small businesses in general and for specific business models, like restaurants, retail, and service-based companies. You will learn exactly what to do to keep your Google Business Profile competitive.

You may also find these two websites useful:

How to Set & Achieve S.M.A.R.T. Goals

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