1. Incomplete Or Inaccurate Information
One of the most significant mistakes businesses make is providing incomplete or inaccurate information on their GMB profile. This includes essential details like business name, address, phone number (NAP), business hours, and website URL.
How To Avoid It
Ensure that all information is accurate, consistent, and up-to-date across all online platforms. Regularly review your GMB listing and update it whenever there are changes, such as new operating hours or a change in location. Consistency in NAP information is crucial for local SEO and helps customers find you easily.
2. Neglecting Customer Reviews
Customer reviews play a critical role in attracting new customers and building trust. Ignoring or failing to respond to reviews, both positive and negative, can harm your business reputation.
How To Avoid It
Actively manage your reviews by regularly checking your GMB listing for new feedback. Respond promptly and professionally to all reviews, thanking customers for positive feedback and addressing any concerns raised in negative reviews. This not only shows that you value customer input but also enhances your business’s credibility.
3. Failing To Use Business Categories
Choosing the wrong business category or not selecting any category at all is a common oversight. Categories help Google understand your business and connect you with relevant searches.
How To Avoid It
Select the most accurate primary category that reflects your main business activity. You can also choose additional categories to further define your offerings. Take time to research and understand the categories available to ensure your business appears in the right search results.
4. Ignoring Google Posts
Google Posts allow businesses to share updates, promotions, events, and announcements directly on their GMB listing. Many businesses overlook this feature, missing an opportunity to engage with potential customers.
How To Avoid It
Regularly create and publish Google Posts to keep your audience informed about special offers, events, or important news. Use eye-catching images and clear calls to action to encourage user engagement. Consistent posting helps keep your business top-of-mind for customers.
5. Not Adding High-Quality Photos
Visual content significantly impacts customer perceptions and engagement. Businesses often fail to upload high-quality photos, which can deter potential customers.
How To Avoid It
Invest time in taking and uploading high-quality images of your products, services, and business location. Include images of your team, interior and exterior views, and any special events or promotions. A well-curated photo gallery enhances your listing’s appeal and gives potential customers a glimpse of what to expect.
6. Neglecting Insights And Analytics
Google My Business offers important analytics and insights regarding customer interactions with your business listing. Many businesses overlook this data, missing out on critical information to inform their marketing strategies.
How To Avoid It
Regularly review the insights provided by GMB to understand how customers find your business, what actions they take, and where they come from. Use this data to refine your marketing strategies and make informed decisions about future campaigns.
7. Not Using The Q&A Feature
The Q&A section allows potential customers to ask questions directly on your GMB listing. Ignoring this feature can lead to unanswered questions and lost opportunities.
How To Avoid It
Monitor the Q&A section regularly and provide prompt answers to any inquiries. You can also preemptively address common questions by posting FAQs, which can enhance customer experience and reduce the number of repetitive inquiries.
8. Mismanaging Multiple Locations
For businesses with multiple locations, mismanagement of GMB listings can lead to confusion and errors. Each location must have its own, accurate listing.
How To Avoid It
Ensure each location has a separate GMB listing with unique information, including the specific address, phone number, and hours of operation. Regularly verify that each listing is updated and consistent to avoid confusion among customers.