Anyone who knows anything about wanting to rank in Google for their local area is well aware of Google My Business (or Google Places as it used to be called). When setting this up I’m sure that you followed all of the steps required to make sure that your listing was as full and complete as possible- but when was the last time you had a look at your listing? I bet there have been some changes if it’s been a while!
In this article, you’ll learn about some of the updates Google have made to this powerful local seo tool and what you need to do to make the most of it.
1) Locate the proper Google My Business page
Particularly if an old seo company set up your listing for you, it’s important to ensure that there are not duplicate listings for your dental practice in Google’s system.
An easy way to check if you have duplicates, is to search ‘Google My Business’ and to search for your practice’s name or address. Then, delete any duplicates you find.
2) Is your page verified?
Ensuring your Google My Business page is verified is essential if you want to take full advantage of your business listing. When you login to your dashboard, you will be able to see if it’s verified or not as Google will put a large red banner across the dashboard until you do. If it is not yet verified, you can do so by either phone or by postcard.
3) Is the correct practice name used?
It’s crucial that the practice’s name, address and phone number (NAP) are as consistent as possible across the web.
According to Google’s Guidelines “You should represent your business exactly as it appears in the offline world”.
Make sure that you do not use call tracking telephone numbers in your listing, please use your practice’s landline number instead.
4) Make sure that you list your practice under the correct categories
Using the correct categories for your dental practice is essential. Custom categories are no longer allowed. According to Google’s guidelines, you should “Add categories which describe what your business is, and not what it does.”
5) URL
If you have a single location business, it would be appropriate to use the home page URL. However, if you have multiple locations, best practice would be to use the landing page for that particular location.
6) Business hours
Are the business hours filled out correctly and completely for this location? They should be 100% filled out and mirror your website’s information.
7) Introduction description
According to Google’s guidelines, you should use this field to “Add a brief description of your business here. This is where you can introduce yourself to your customers and teach them about your business.”
This should be unique content and be over 250 words, do not use this section to spam your listing with keywords.
8) Photos
Photos are becoming an ever important aspect of local search. Make sure that you have photos in each part of the photos section, including interior and exterior shots, team photographs and your logo.
If you would like further information about Google my business and its impact upon local search, speak to a member of our search engine optimisation team on: 01202 677 277 and they will be happy to help you.