Being visible online – especially on Google – has never been more important, especially as a local small business.
Even as a remodeler or builder, you need to be easily found when homeowners are searching online. Despite this, many companies don’t ever lay claim to this free online listing. (Some of the other business profiles you should be sure to claim are Facebook, Houzz, Angie’s List and Yelp. Look for more on those in a future post.)
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a free business listing that is designed to make it easy for local customers to find you. You’ve probably seen them when you Google a business – it’s the block that shows up to the right-hand side of the search page, like this one for RT Marketing.
It usually shows (at least) a map of the business location, basic info about the business, hours, website, etc. Once you claim the listing, you can add more information, including photos, and you can make sure that all the information is up to date, such as if you’ve changed office hours or procedures due to COVID.
How do I claim my listing?
Simply Google your company to see what comes up for you. Near the bottom of the listing, there will be a link “Own this business?” Clicking on that will bring up instructions on how to claim the business. (You can also go to google.com/business and search for your company.)
Typically, Google will mail a postcard to your business address that will contain an access code, and then you’ll enter that code into the website to claim your listing.
Verify your information
Once you have access, make sure all of the information is up to date. You can also choose a category for your company. This is important because it is how Google will classify you in local searches. It can be as simple as general contractor, but also there are other more specific options available such as roofing, deck building, etc.
If you opt into updates and recommendations from Google My Business, they’ll remind you to update your listing, add posts, etc.
Improve your listing with photos and reviews
Once the basics are out of the way, it’s time to improve your profile. Two of the best ways to do that are with photos and customer reviews.
If you’re not already doing so, make sure that asking customers for reviews is a part of your regular post-project communications. It’s also a good idea to reach out to past satisfied customers to ask them to provide reviews to help populate the listing.
More on reviews: How Vital are Online Reviews to Small Businesses
We’re also blessed to work in an industry that lends itself so beautifully to photographs. Add plenty of photos to your Google My Business listing – it’s a great way to catch potential customers’ attention.
Keep it updated
Make sure you keep your listing up to date with new information and photos. A great way to keep it fresh is to create a post on Google. It’s very simple – just click on “Add a post” on your profile and write an update. Write about a new promotion or service, for example. (An easy way to take advantage of it is to share the posts you’re making on your blog or Facebook page.)
Google My Business also has a Question & Answer section where customers can not only ask you questions but you can post your own answers to FAQs.
Need help claiming your online contractor listings? RT Marketing can help you with that and all of your online marketing. Contact us today to find out how we can help you grow your remodeling business.