SEO Company Kent: How to Use Google My Business to Get More Local Customers

SEO Company Kent: How to Use Google My Business to Get More Local Customers

Building a strong online presence can change the future of a local business. Small business owners who want to reach more customers need strategies that deliver results quickly and reliably. Google My Business is one of the most effective ways to boost local visibility, attract new clients, and grow your reputation in the community.

For those serious about competing in Kent’s busy market, expert guidance matters. Working with a trusted SEO Company Kent can help unlock the full potential of your Google My Business listing and turn casual online searches into real, paying customers.

Why Google My Business Matters for Local Growth

Google My Business (GMB) is more than just another online profile. When someone searches for a service or product near them, GMB listings are often the first results they see. Many owners discover that working with a seo company for small businesses helps them get the most out of this powerful free tool, ensuring their business appears on Google Maps, makes it easy for customers to call directly from the search results, and displays reviews that influence customer decisions.

The businesses that make the most of GMB are those that treat it as an extension of their storefront. It can influence whether someone visits your shop, calls for a quote, or chooses a competitor. With so many local businesses competing for attention, GMB offers an edge that is hard to ignore.

Setting Up Your Google My Business Listing the Right Way

A GMB listing must be accurate, complete, and up-to-date. Many small businesses rush through setup, missing details that could help them rank higher or earn more clicks.

• Verify Your Business:
  Verification is the first and most important step. Google sends a code by mail or allows phone/email verification for some industries. Only after verification will your business appear in local searches and maps.

• Complete All Information:
  Fill out every field—business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and category. The more details you provide, the easier it is for customers and Google to trust your listing.

• Choose Relevant Categories:
  Select categories that best describe your business. Being too broad or too narrow can hurt your visibility. For example, “Bakery” is more effective than “Food,” but “Gluten-Free Bakery” may be too specific if you serve a broader audience.

Optimizing Your Listing for Local Search Success

Once your GMB profile is live, it’s time to optimize. Small adjustments and regular updates can drive more traffic and boost your rankings in local search results.

• Add High-Quality Photos:
  Businesses with photos get more clicks, calls, and direction requests. Upload images of your storefront, products, staff, and events. Quality images create trust and help customers visualize their experience with you.

• Write a Compelling Business Description:
  The description is your chance to explain what sets you apart. Focus on services, unique selling points, and what customers can expect. Keep it honest and keyword-friendly, without stuffing in search terms.

• Update Hours and Special Information:
  Keep your hours accurate, especially during holidays or special events. Nothing frustrates customers more than showing up to a closed business that appears open online.

Collecting and Managing Customer Reviews

Reviews have a massive influence on buying decisions. A steady flow of positive reviews builds trust and tells Google your business is active and valuable to the community.

• Ask Satisfied Customers for Reviews:
  Encourage customers to leave honest feedback. A personal ask after a good experience is often all it takes. Make the process simple by sharing a direct review link.

• Respond to All Reviews:
  Reply to every review—positive or negative. Thank people for their support, and address concerns politely and professionally. This shows you value customer feedback and are willing to improve.

• Monitor for Inaccurate or Fake Reviews:
  Occasionally, you may receive reviews that don’t reflect real experiences. Flag suspicious reviews to Google for removal and explain your side if needed. Never post fake reviews or ask employees to do so.

Using Posts and Updates to Engage Customers

GMB lets you post updates, offers, events, and announcements that appear directly in your business profile. Regular posts keep your listing fresh and give customers a reason to choose you over others.

• Share Special Offers and Events:
  Highlight limited-time deals or upcoming events. This gives customers a reason to visit soon and shows you’re an active, thriving business.

• Announce New Products or Services:
  Use posts to introduce something new. This keeps regular customers informed and may attract new business from those searching for your latest offerings.

• Answer Common Questions:
  Use the Q&A section to address frequently asked questions. This helps customers make decisions faster and reduces repetitive phone calls.

Tracking Performance and Improving Your Strategy

GMB provides analytics on how customers find your business, what actions they take, and which photos or posts perform best. Use this data to refine your local SEO strategy.

• Monitor Search Queries:
  See which keywords or questions lead people to your profile. Tailor your posts and business description to match these search trends.

• Track Customer Actions:
  Find out how many people called, requested directions, or visited your website. If certain posts or images drive more engagement, use similar content in the future.

• Stay Ahead of Competitors:
  Regularly check competitor profiles for ideas on photos, offers, or responses. Look for gaps in their service and highlight what makes your business unique.

Bullet Points: How Google My Business Helps Attract Local Customers

• Builds Local Trust:
  A complete, active GMB profile shows customers that you are established and trustworthy. Positive reviews, updated information, and quality images signal reliability, making people more likely to choose you.

• Drives More In-Store Visits:
  Clear directions, up-to-date hours, and direct call buttons make it easy for nearby customers to find and contact you. This increases foot traffic and leads to more walk-in business.

• Boosts Online Visibility:
  By optimizing your listing, you appear higher in Google’s local pack and on Maps. This places your business in front of people who are actively searching for what you offer.

• Improves Engagement:
  Posts, questions, and prompt review responses keep your listing active and engaging. Engaged customers are more likely to visit, buy, and leave positive feedback.

• Provides Valuable Insights:
  GMB’s analytics show how customers discover and interact with your business. These insights help refine your marketing and target the strategies that work best.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Google My Business

It’s easy to overlook key details when managing your GMB listing, but small errors can hurt your results.

• Incomplete or Outdated Information:
  Failing to update hours, phone numbers, or address confuses potential customers. Always check your listing after any changes in your business.

• Ignoring Customer Reviews:
  Not responding to feedback can make customers feel undervalued. Make it a habit to check reviews and reply promptly.

• Using Poor-Quality Photos:
  Dark, blurry, or outdated images create a bad first impression. Invest in quality photography or ask satisfied customers to share their experiences.

• Overusing Keywords:
  Keyword stuffing in your business description can make your profile look spammy. Focus on clear, helpful language that describes your services.

Conclusion

Small businesses in Kent have a valuable opportunity to stand out by making the most of Google My Business. Taking the time to set up, optimize, and regularly update your profile can drive more traffic, build trust, and turn online searches into loyal customers. If you want expert help refining your approach or scaling your results, partnering with a reliable small business seo company in the middle of your digital strategy can offer the guidance and ongoing support you need for real, lasting growth.