How to Claim and Use Your Google My Business Page

Google My Business is a critical part of your Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Yet many business owners and managers don’t realize how to access the page — or even know they can update their business information. Here is the step-by-step process to secure your business page on Google. 

Why bother with GMB? 

First, why do you care? You care because when people search for your business online, they want answers. Google provides those. So if someone searches “Raleigh tree service,” they will get a list of tree companies. But if they directly search your business, such as ACME Tree Service Raleigh,” your business pops up to the right in the information box. This photo shows what we mean, using our marketing agency as an example. Research shows that up to 64% of consumers use GMB to find contact details for local businesses. 

That box shows our address, website URL, hours of operation, phone number, photos, and more. But what if your hours change? What if that information is inaccurate? Here’s how to fix it. 

Step 1: Find your page. 

First, search for your business using your company’s name and the city in which you are located. If you do not have a physical address, this might be trickier. We recommend you have an address for SEO purposes, even if you’re a freelancer or solopreneur. If you cannot find yourself, that may be the result of several issues. If your website is on Wix, for example, you will often not find yourself. You can always contact us for help. 

Step 2: Click on the claim button. 

In the photo example above, you’ll see a blue checkmark and the statement, “You manage this business profile.” If I did not already control it, it would say either “Claim this business” or “own this business?” Click on that area.  

Step 3: Verify your business. 

After clicking on the button, Google will offer you options to claim the business page. Choose from either an email, phone call, or a postcard. If you choose the postcard, you’ll have to wait a few days to receive it. 

Step 4: Find your page. 

Once you claim your page, you might make a few changes. Or, you might end up leaving. But then how do you get back? Log in to your google account. Then click on the square made up of nine dots. In the dropdown, find the “My Business” icon, a blue canopy with the letter “G.” You can also go to: https://www.google.com/business/

Step 5: Post to your page. 

Clicking on the blue canopy will open a landing page to see all GMB locations you manage. Click the one you want to use. Then, you can use the navigation on the left to make changes. 

Managing Your GMB Page

Once your page is verified, you probably won’t have to make many adjustments. But here are some things you should do: 

• Review your URL, address, phone number, etc. 
• Check the hours and make sure they are correct. 
• Click on “posts” to post on GMB. We recommend adding a new post with a photo or video at least once per week. 
• Respond to reviews — preferably as they come in. But you may go back and respond to old ones as well. 
• Fill out all areas such as descriptions, services, etc. Use keywords. 

Questions about GMB? We’re happy to help — or manage it for you. Contact us to learn more.