Google My Business

 

Google is often seen as the all-knowing deity of the online world and plays a huge role in how marketers execute online tactics. For years now, we’ve been watching how Google indexes and ranks content and make strides in keeping up. Now, it’s Google’s turn to keep up with how businesses are using social media to connect with their customers.

Over the past few years, business owners and online marketers have been confused about the variety of Google products, such as Google Places and Google+ Local. Trust us, you weren’t alone and Google was paying attention to the confusion by its users.

To solve the problem and consolidate the multiple accounts and pages created to maximize online exposure, Google introduced Google My Business last week. Google My Business creates a central hub to manage business information, reviews, and social interactions.

What does this mean for you?

  • Automatic upgrade: Your account (Places or Google+) has automatically been upgraded. If you want to double check this, simply login to your account, click on your Places listing or Google+ page and on the left hand side, underneath where it says “Google,” it should now have a drop-down menu that starts with “My Business.”

  • Get your business on Google My Business: If you don't have a listing with Google yet, there's never been a better time. Visit Google My Business and click the "Get on Google" button. Google will guide you through several steps to make sure your listing is optimized and filled out correctly. Even if you don't have a local business but offer other services, you should still be managing an onine presence and giving your customers opportunities to connect with you. Please not that any edits will not appear on Google until you verify your business. 
  • Your account is still free. This upgrade has no charge and business pages are still free to manage.

Check out this introductory video by Google about the upgrade to see how this product upgrade keeps you connected with the people that are already searching for you.