Google Mijn Bedrijf: Basisprincipes

What is Google My Business and why should you use it?

Google My Business, or GMB, is a free tool that lets businesses manage how they appear on Google Search and Maps. Why does this matter? Because many customers look for local businesses online before they buy. In fact, statistics show that 84% of customers use Google to find a local business.

With GMB, your business shows up when people search for products or services like yours in your area. For example, if you run a bakery in Manchester, your listing will appear to anyone searching for 'fresh bread near me' or 'bakeries in Manchester'.

Additionally, GMB is not just for small local shops. It benefits national and international companies too. For example, a UK-based software company can list its offices or service regions to appear in different cities and countries.

How does Google My Business help customers find you?

Have you noticed how Google shows a map with business results at the top of search pages? That’s thanks to GMB. When you set up your listing, your business details appear alongside reviews, photos, and operating hours. This makes it easier for people to find you.

Customers can quickly check your opening times, call you, or visit your website. Say someone searches "plumber near me" — they want a fast solution. A complete GMB listing means you show up with all the info they need. This can lead to more calls and foot traffic.

For example, a local café can list its menu, busy times, and photos of customers enjoying their food. This encourages new visitors to come in and try the food.

How does Google My Business help you get reviews?

Did you know reviews influence over 90% of customers before buying? GMB lets customers leave ratings and reviews on your profile. Positive reviews build trust and can boost your ranking in search results.

After a purchase or service, you can ask customers to leave a review. For example, a hairdresser could say, “If you enjoyed your cut today, please leave us a review on Google!”

Regular reviews keep your profile fresh and show that you care about customer feedback. Negative reviews also help identify issues you can fix.

How do you set up Google My Business step-by-step?

1. How do you start with Google My Business?

Start by visiting https://google.com/business. If you don’t have a Google account, create one. Then click on ‘Sign Up’ or ‘Log In’ to access the tool.

If you own multiple locations or businesses, you can manage them all from one account.

2. How do you enter your business name?

Type your exact business name in the search box. Does it already exist on Google? If yes, you can claim the business and update the details. If not, you create a new listing with your name.

Example: If your business is called “Bright Cleaners,” search for it first to avoid duplicates.

3. How do you choose your business category?

Google offers hundreds of categories to describe what you do. Find the category that fits best—for example, “Italian restaurant,” “car mechanic,” or “digital marketing agency.”

Choosing the right category helps Google show your listing to the right people.

4. How do you add your business location?

Input your physical address if you have a storefront or office. If you work from home or deliver services remotely, you can choose to hide your address.

For example, a mobile pet groomer may serve customers at their homes without a physical shop.

You can also specify your delivery area—say you deliver in London and nearby towns. This expands your reach on local searches.

5. How do you specify where your customers are located?

If your customers are spread across different locations, list these in your profile. This way, your business can appear in more local searches.

For example, an event caterer servicing multiple towns can list them all. This helps Google display your listing more often.

6. How do you get your business verified?

Verification proves that you really own the business. Google usually sends a verification postcard to your address within 5-7 days. When you get it, log in to your account, enter the 5-digit code, and click 'Verify.'

Some businesses may be eligible for verification by phone or email, which speeds up the process.

7. How do you populate and keep your profile updated?

After verification, fill out all important details: opening hours, website URL, phone number, and photos. Add special hours for holidays or crises, like COVID-19 restrictions.

Keep adding new photos and posts to engage customers. Post updates about sales, new products, or events. For example, a florist can post seasonal flower availability.

Updating your profile regularly shows Google you’re active, which can improve your ranking.

How can Google My Business insights improve your marketing?

Did you know GMB gives you data on how customers find you? It shows the search terms people use, how they interact with your listing, and where they come from.

For example, if many searchers use "affordable plumber in Leeds," you can focus your website and ads on that phrase.

Based on these insights, businesses have improved their SEO and targeted Google Ads more effectively.

Imagine a café sees a spike in searches for “vegan lunch options.” They can adjust their menu and post them online to attract more customers.