Steps to Register or Claim Your Business Listing on Google

Claim your spot on Google with this simple business listing guide!

Nov 5, 2023

When you're in the moving business, your reputation and visibility are as crucial as a smooth ride on moving day. In a digital era where the first impression often happens online, having your business listed on Google, specifically via a Google Business Profile, is like having the biggest billboard on the busiest highway. But it's not just about being seen—it's about being found and trusted. Let’s take the first step together.

a person sitting in his desk with computer facing us trying to manage his google business listing

Getting Started with Google My Business

Before you can wow your customers with your impeccable packing skills, you need to get them to your virtual doorstep. Google My Business (GMB) is your tool for doing just that, offering a free account for your enterprise.

Registering Your Business on Google

Step into the Spotlight: Creating a Google Business Profile is like laying the foundation for your online presence. You'll need your basic business details: name, business address, business phone number, and website. This is not just any information—it's the digital DNA of your business identity on Google Maps and search results.

Verification Is Key: Google likes to keep things real, and so should you. Verifying your business is how you tell the world, "We’re the real deal." The physical postcard verification might seem old-school, but it's about as reliable as the trusty cardboard box—simple and effective. The verification code received will cement your business's credibility.

Claiming Your Business Listing

Sometimes, your business is already out there, listed by a customer or automatically generated in Google's search results. Claiming your listing on Google Maps is like putting your name on your moving truck. It says, "Yes, we are indeed the movers who will make your life easier." You’ll confirm details, verify ownership, and start driving the narrative of your business.

Setting Up Your Google Business Account

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand the broader picture of what a Google Business Account can offer:

Centralized Control: A business account on Google is a centralized platform to manage your business's information, Google Ads, and insights.
Ease of Access: With a Google Maps app, your brick-and-mortar location is easily accessible to customers looking for services in their area.
Multi-Business Management: If you're a business owner with different business entities, your Google business account allows you to manage multiple profiles seamlessly.

Optimizing Your Business Profile

Now, let’s polish your profile like you polish your brand's reputation.

Enhancing Your Listing’s Appeal: Upload high-resolution images of your trucks, your team in action, and your happy customers (with their permission, of course). These images speak volumes about the quality of your service and add appeal to your Google Maps listing.

Write a Description That Moves People: Here, you'll insert relevant information that resonates with your audience. Are you a small business owner passionate about your community? Make that known. Include relevant keyword searches to ensure you appear in the correct search results.

Categories and Services: Define your service area business by selecting the right business category. This helps users find you when they perform searches related to your field.

Reviews Are Your Digital Applause: Google Reviews are a testament to your service quality. Encourage them, and respond to all, showing prospective customers and Google's search algorithm that you're engaged and trustworthy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to add your business:

Sign In or Create Account: Go to the Google Business Profile Manager and sign in with your Google account or create a new one if you don’t already have one.
Add Your Business: Click on 'Add your business' to Google. Input your business name and select the correct one from the drop-down list or add a new business name if missing.
Select Business Type: Choose the business type that best describes your operation, whether it's a local business serving nearby customers or a service area business operating over a wider range.
Enter Your Location: Provide the physical address of your business. If you have a brick and mortar location, ensure this is precise to help people search for your services effectively.
Verification: Choose the verification option that works best for you to verify your business. This could include a verification code by mail to your physical address.

Navigating the Verification Process

Verify Your Business: It's critical to complete the verification process. Without it, you won't be able to fully manage your listing or appear in Google's search results.
On-Screen Steps: Follow the on-screen steps which will guide you through the verification process. Google may offer different methods based on your business type and location.
Knowledge Panel: Once verified, your business will be eligible to appear in the knowledge panel on Google search results, boosting your visibility.

Leveraging Google My Business for Local SEO

Use keywords that mirror relevant keyword searches, maintain an accurate and complete Google Business Profile, and regularly create content through Google Posts to improve your standing in local search results.

Enhancing Visibility with Google Ads

Google Ads: Consider investing in Google Ads. This can help your listing appear to potential customers even when they aren't directly searching for your business name or category.
Targeted Campaigns: Ads can be targeted to local business areas, specific demographics, or to those who have shown interest in similar services.

Maintaining and Monitoring Your Listing

Your Google My Business listing isn't a set-it-and-forget-it deal. Keep your business information up-to-date, whether it's a new business phone number or a change in your physical location, to avoid misdirecting your customers.

Insights Are Your GPS: Google's tools, like Google Search Console and insights from your Google Business Profile account, help you understand customer interactions, allowing you to adapt and thrive.

Monitoring Your Business Insights

Track Engagement: Use insights provided by Google to track how new customers are finding you and what actions they are taking on your listing.
Knowledge Panel Visibility: Keep an eye on how your business appears in the knowledge panel and make adjustments as needed to improve customer engagement.

Leveraging Local SEO

Consistent Updates: Keep your business's information up to date, including hours, services, and photos, to help your SEO ranking.
Local Keywords: Use relevant local keywords in your business description and posts to ensure you are visible in the search results for your community.

Final Touches for Your Business Profile

Business Dashboard: Your business dashboard is where you can fine-tune your profile, keep track of analytics, and directly communicate with customers.
Next Screen Actions: Always be ready for what the next screen prompts, whether it's adding new photos, updating holiday hours, or responding to a new review.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Data Inaccuracies: Address inconsistencies immediately through your business dashboard to ensure customers always have accurate information.

Negative Reviews: A professional response shows that you’re a business owner who cares.

By now, you’ve laid the groundwork for a solid Google Business Profile that should serve as a strong digital foundation for your moving company. From registering your business to responding to reviews, you're not just on the map—you're on the move.

Ready to accelerate your moving company's growth with high-quality leads and top-tier SEO services? Look no further than NetworkMoving.com. Their expertise in website optimization and tailored SEO strategies will elevate your online presence, ensuring your company stands out in a crowded market. Whether you're looking to attract new customers, boost your Google Business Profile, or climb the search engine ranks, their dedicated team is here to propel you to the top. Visit NetworkMoving.com today and take the first step towards a more successful tomorrow for your moving business. L