Google My Business Resources
Choose your topic below to get started.
Can’t find the answers you’re looking for? We can help.
Get in touch to book 15 free minutes with a marketing expert and get all your burning GMB questions answered.
Get a Free Google Business Profile Analysis Watch Video
Businesses with a Complete GMB Profile are 2.7X More Likely to be Considered Reputable
The numbers don’t lie. Optimizing your business’ Google My Business profile has never been more important. From requesting driving directions to clicking-to-call, browsing reviews to perusing photos, your customers are interacting with Google My Business (GMB) on a daily basis.
Watch VideoYour Google My Business Questions, Answered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Google My Business (GMB)?
Google My Business is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. It helps businesses connect with customers, post updates, and see how customers interact with their business on Google.
How do I create a GMB listing?
To create a GMB listing, sign in to Google My Business, enter your business name, address, and select the appropriate business category. Verify your business through the verification options provided, such as postcard, phone, or email.
What are the benefits of using GMB?
Benefits include improved local SEO, increased visibility in Google Search and Maps, customer engagement through reviews and messaging, access to insights on how customers find and interact with your business, and the ability to post updates and offers.
Is Google My Business free?
Yes, Google My Business is a free tool provided by Google to help businesses manage their online presence.
Can I manage multiple locations with one GMB account?
Yes, you can manage multiple locations using a single GMB account. Simply add each location under the same account and manage them individually.
How can I optimize my GMB listing?
Optimize your GMB listing by ensuring your information is accurate and complete, adding high-quality photos, regularly updating your business hours and services, responding to customer reviews, and posting updates and offers.
What types of posts should I create on GMB?
Create posts about special offers, upcoming events, new products or services, company news, and customer stories or testimonials. Regular posting keeps your audience engaged and informed.
How do I get more customer reviews on GMB?
Encourage customers to leave reviews by asking them directly, including review requests in your email signature or receipts, and responding to existing reviews to show you value customer feedback.
What information should I include in my GMB listing?
Include your business name, address, phone number, website, business hours, services or products offered, business description, and high-quality photos of your business.
How can I use GMB insights to improve my business?
Use GMB insights to understand how customers find your listing, where they come from, what actions they take on your listing, and how your listing compares to others. Use this data to make informed decisions about your marketing and customer engagement strategies.
How important are customer reviews on GMB?
Customer reviews are crucial as they influence potential customers' decisions, impact your local SEO ranking, and provide valuable feedback for your business. Positive reviews can enhance your reputation, while responding to negative reviews can demonstrate your commitment to customer service.
How should I respond to negative reviews on GMB?
Respond to negative reviews promptly and professionally. Acknowledge the customer's concerns, apologize if necessary, and offer a solution or invite them to contact you directly to resolve the issue. This shows you value customer feedback and are willing to make improvements.
Can I remove a negative review from my GMB listing?
You cannot remove negative reviews yourself, but you can report reviews that violate Google's review policies. If Google determines that a review is inappropriate, it may be removed.
How can I highlight positive reviews on my GMB listing?
Highlight positive reviews by responding to them, thanking customers for their feedback, and sharing them on your website or social media channels. You can also feature testimonials in your GMB posts.
What tools are available to manage my GMB reviews?
Use the GMB dashboard to monitor and respond to reviews, set up notifications for new reviews, and access insights on review trends. Third-party reputation management tools can also help streamline the process.
What's the new name for Google My Business, and why was it changed?
Google My Business has been renamed to Google Business Profile. This change is aimed at positioning it as the best tool for local businesses to improve their online presence, reach potential customers, and maintain communication with new customers.
How can I use emojis to respond to Google reviews?
Google Business Profile now allows businesses to react to customer reviews with emojis like hearts, prayer hands, or fire on Google Maps. This feature is designed to enhance engagement and interaction with customers directly through their reviews.
How can I add my social media profiles to my Google Business Profile?
How do I manage my Google Business Profile directly on Google?
Managing your Google Business Profile is now more accessible directly from Google Search and Maps. By logging in with your Google account and typing your business name in the search bar, you can view and interact with features such as reviews, Google Ads, posts, analytics, and updates right from the search results page.
What happened to my Google Business Profile chat?
Google has removed the chat functionality from Google Business Profiles. After July 31, new conversations will no longer be created, and businesses are encouraged to direct customers to other chat capabilities or phone options. However, customers can still find and contact your business via Google Search and Maps.
Why is my GMB listing not showing up on Google?
Your listing might not show up due to incomplete information, unverified status, being too new, or violations of Google's guidelines. Ensure your listing is complete, verified, and complies with all guidelines.
How do I verify my GMB listing if I didn't receive the postcard?
If you didn't receive the postcard, request a new one through the GMB dashboard. You can also try other verification methods such as phone or email if available for your business.
What should I do if my business information is incorrect on GMB?
Update your business information through the GMB dashboard. Make sure all details are accurate, including your business name, address, phone number, and hours of operation.
How do I regain access to my GMB account if I'm locked out?
If you're locked out of your GMB account, try resetting your password through the Google account recovery process. If that doesn't work, contact GMB support for assistance.
Why are my customer reviews not appearing on my GMB listing?
Reviews might not appear due to a delay in processing, violations of Google's review policies, or technical issues. Ensure your reviews comply with guidelines and contact GMB support if the problem persists.
