6 reasons why you can’t ignore Google Maps

With the world switching to smart phones, there is an increasing dependence on all types of apps as we go through our day. And Google Maps has become one of those apps that people use daily, almost replacing the quintessential Yellow Pages as well as the traditional stack of visiting cards! Be it exploring new neighbourhoods or navigating our daily commute, we all trust the app to get us to our destination in the fastest way possible. The popularity of the Android platform has contributed to making Google Maps a staple on most smart phones, and it is not surprising that it is the world’s most popular navigation app today. But navigation isn’t the only reason why it is so popular. People are increasingly using the app to discover places, and services around them, and here is where it gets interesting for you.

Google has become a key player in the local listings space, and if your business relies on footfalls or walk-ins, it becomes imperative to have a listing on Google Search and Google Maps. The app’s features also allow you to upload imagery and other important details that can entice and direct potential customers to you. To get your business listed and searchable on Google Maps, all you need to do is to fill in all your details on the Google My Business page. This helps on the visibility aspect, even if your business doesn’t have a website yet.

A trend that’s become strong today is people directly performing online searches for the names of the businesses in Google Maps, sometimes even using generic search terms like “salon near me”. So it isn’t just important to be present with the name of your business, but also optimize it for relevant keywords like these.

Here are 7 strong reasons why optimizing for Google Maps is a must for your business!

1. Lets you claim your business online 

As basic as this might sound, it is important for you to claim your business online. Because if you don’t, your competition could! It is akin to registering your trademark or logo, a listing on Google Maps will allow you to stake claim to what is rightfully yours.

2. It is awesome for SEO

Google Maps allows you to list all the identifying information about your business, including but not limited to your website url, your phone number and related photos. This is a great way to get seen as a local business, and also direct more traffic to your website.

3. It establishes your credibility

With Google Maps being used as a local search engine, having all your company’s contact information available for potential clients, alongwith directions to reach out helps establish credibility as a bona fide business.

4. Allows you to be seen by more prospects

The younger generation today do not refer to printed directories as much, and prefer using their smart phones to look up almost everything! If you spend money on other marketing activities, but do not have a listing on Google Maps, there are chances that they may just choose your competitor over you. And you surely don’t want that, do you?

5. Allows for people to know more about you

With features like highlighting your latest social media posts and allowing people to review your business, it allows prospects and customers to know more about you, even before they reach you! Likewise, the app also helps you know about your customer’s likes and dislikes, through their positive and negative reviews.

6. Excellent local marketing

Google Maps popularity is aided by the fact that it is a free service. For businesses like yours, it is a brilliant tool for local marketing, at a fraction of the cost that it would take for traditional marketing techniques. Because it is only when you are seen, will people look at what you want to sell!

If you are excited about capitalizing on Google Maps to take your business to higher ranks, reach out to us and we can explore what is possible for you!