Stop everything now! You must do this one task immediately! I recently had a conversation with one of my former consultants who started her own business. I was passing her quite a few leads and she had suggested that it was because I had more reviews. Well, maybe? Although I think reviews do hold a lot of weight, I know that they are not the end all, be all of a client’s decision-making. It could be because they saw me first on Google. I asked her if she had a Google business account. She asked, “What is Google business?”
Found on Google Maps
If you’re wondering the same thing, do not do one more thing today until you set up a Google My Business account. This one, little, tiny step will get you better results in your SEO ranking.
Google My Business
Google business accounts allow businesses to be found by potential clients. I’m sure you have tested this feature out using your phone or desktop. Have you ever done a Google search for nearby restaurants? This very feature is how couples could find you and your wedding planner company. The idea is that when they type “Chicago wedding planner” or “Pensacola wedding planner” into their phones or desktops, your business will pop up. This tool will out rank WeddingWire or The Knot every time. And that’s why it’s so vital that you join Google My Business today.
The Power of Google Maps
Since google owns SEO (I mean let’s face it), doing this one thing could help your business tremendously. Remember though, nothing happens overnight with google. It’s a long game (if you want the short game, get on Instagram), and you want to spend a little time on your account each month. If you do this, you’ll see your SEO ranking slowing go up. Start requesting that client start posting reviews go to your google business account and add updated pictures of your work regularly. These things matter in the eyes of google.
The Video Tutorial
This video provides a brief tutorial on how to open a Google My Business account. The process is fairly easy, but until you verify your account, it is only temporary. You will receive a verification code in the mail with a number on it. You simply plug it in and you’re in business. Go ahead and watch how simple it is to set up. Free feel to leave any questions in the comments if you’re not getting it. I always answer promptly.
What You Need Beforehand
There are a few things you need to gather before creating an account. Having these items in advance will streamline the process. To make the most of your account, you should have:
- Business name
- Address
- Phone number
- Category (Wedding Planner)
- Website
- Hours of operation
- Description
- Logo
- Best Business Photos
Conclusion
Getting on Google Maps is one of the best things you can do for your business. Doing this simple step will make it so couples searching local “wedding planners” will find you with ease. Take today and get on Google Maps using Google My Business.
