“Google My Business” Gives Local Marketers an All-in-One Dashboard

In yet another rebranding of its local search marketing services, Google has launched “Google My Business”, a merger of Google+ Local and Google Places for Business pages.

What this means for new users

For first-time users of Google’s local listing products, this is a great change! You can sign up for Google My Business at google.com/business and easily manage all of your Google listings to increase online visibility in Google search, Google Maps, and Google+. When you sign up for Google My Business, a Google+ page will automatically be created for you. Just fill in your contact information, upload photos, and verify your website and you are all set!

What this means for existing users

Long-time Google users may roll their eyes at this update. (Another name for the same services, really?!)  With products like Google Local, Google Places, Google+ Local, Google Maps for Business, and others all performing similar functions, business owners and listing managers have been confused for years. Google My Business is meant to alleviate these frustrations and offer a one-stop-shop for local business listings on Google. Entering your business info one time into Google My Business will give you a uniform listing in Google search, Google Maps, and Google+.

No new action is required for existing Google Places or Google+ Local users, but I do recommend you login at least once to familiarize yourself with the new dashboard and make sure your information is still correct and complete. Login at google.com/business using your existing Google Places or Google+ login.

What to expect

All of your important business information is clearly displayed at the top of the dashboard. Quickly review your listing for accuracy and easily make changes.

Google My Business also gives you access to other Google tools on the same dashboard. You can post to your Google+ page, get business insights, see your online reviews, check Google Analytics, and start a Hangout with your followers.

What’s new?

One new option that’s prominently featured on the Google My Business dashboard is the ability to add a Virtual Tour of your business.

More importantly is to focus on the things that haven’t changed:

• Make sure your contact info is accurate and matches what you have on your website.
• Choose a category that is descriptive of your business.
• Add high-quality photos that tell your story and help to engage consumers.
• Verify your website.
• Post regularly to Google+.
• Manage your reviews and respond promptly if necessary.

Google My Business is available now to all page owners, so login, check out the new dashboard, and verify all your business info is still correct. The mobile version is available now for Android, and the iOS version is coming soon.

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