Editors Note: If you click on these links and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Please note that we are not responsible for any purchases made through these links.
Additionally, I am in NO way affiliated with the official Google Maps or Apple Maps, (please see full disclaimer at bottom). We are just fans and want to see your business succeed. These are just things I've noticed in a few years of using Maps. If you're in a competitive market, running ads might be the best move. I would just try all of these before running them.
Before You Advertise in Google Maps, Read This: A Map Merlin Guide
Hello, business adventurers and digital explorers! Map Merlin here, ready to guide you through the mystical world of Google Maps. Before you consider investing in advertising, let's ensure you've fully utilized the free treasures Google Maps offers. Here's a checklist, complete with fictional examples, to help you optimize your presence.
The Map Merlin Checklist for Google Maps Optimization
1. Captivating Storefront Image
Example: Imagine 'The Enchanted Bakery' with a vibrant, eye-catching image of their storefront, displaying an array of colorful pastries. This image is the first thing potential customers see, making it crucial for drawing them in.
2. Keyword-Rich Reviews
Example: 'Gadget Galaxy', a tech store, encourages customers to mention specific products like "latest smartphones" or "affordable laptops" in their reviews. This not only helps with search relevance but also informs new customers about what they offer.
3. Accurate Business Type Selection
Example: 'Java Jive', a cozy coffee shop, ensures they're listed under cafes and not mistakenly under bars or restaurants. This accuracy helps customers find exactly what they're looking for.
4. Incognito Search Test
Example: 'Bloom & Grow', a local florist, regularly checks their Google Maps listing using an incognito browser to ensure their business appears as intended to new customers.
5. Regular Business Updates
Example: 'Book Haven', a bookstore, keeps their Google Maps profile fresh with updates about new arrivals, book signings, and special offers. They also include attractive photos of their cozy reading nooks.
6. Engaging Local Guide Reviews
Example: 'The Fitness Forge', a gym, reaches out to local guides who have reviewed other fitness centers in the area. Their positive reviews add credibility and attract fitness enthusiasts.
7. Comprehensive Questions and Answers
Example: 'Techie Toys', a popular electronics store, proactively fills out the Q&A section on their Google Maps profile. They include common questions like, "Do you offer tech support for gadgets?" and "What are your store hours on weekends?" This approach addresses customer queries even before they visit the store.
Ads can sometimes feel scary to get into, optimise first!
Why This Checklist Is Crucial
Each of these steps, illustrated with our fictional examples, highlights how you can enhance your Google Maps presence without spending a dime. It's about leveraging the platform's features to maximize visibility and appeal to potential customers. By following this checklist, you're not just preparing for success; you're actively inviting it.
Action-Focused Maps Checklist:
To help you take action on what we just covered
Captivating Storefront Image
Action: Take a high-quality photo of your storefront at the best angle and lighting, and upload it as your main Google Maps image.
Keyword-Rich Reviews
Action: Encourage customers to leave reviews by providing prompts or questions that guide them to mention specific services or products.
Accurate Business Type Selection
Action: Review and update your business category on Google Maps to ensure it accurately reflects what your business offers.
Incognito Search Test
Action: Regularly search for your business using an incognito browser to see how it appears to new customers and make necessary adjustments.
Regular Business Updates
Action: Post frequent updates about new products, offers, or events on your Google Maps profile to keep it active and engaging.
Engaging Local Guide Reviews
Action: Identify local guides who have reviewed similar businesses and reach out to them, inviting them to visit and review your business.
Comprehensive Questions and Answers
Action: Add frequently asked questions to your Google Maps Q&A section and provide detailed, helpful answers.
The Map Merlin Perspective
In the digital realm, the most effective strategies often combine creativity with resourcefulness. Before venturing into the world of paid advertising on Google Maps, ensure you've fully explored and utilized these free yet powerful tools. They are the building blocks for a strong and engaging online presence.
Remember, your journey on Google Maps is like a quest in a vast digital landscape. By taking these initial steps, you're charting a course towards visibility and customer engagement, setting the stage for even greater adventures ahead.
Disclaimer: This content is purely commentary and should be understood as such. It is important to clarify that our insights and suggestions regarding Google Maps are entirely independent and not affiliated with, endorsed by, or related to the official Google Maps platform or Google LLC. Our aim is to provide helpful, independent advice based on experience and observations in the digital mapping and local business landscape. We offer the insights on this site with no warranty or guarantee.
Each business's situation is unique, and while we offer general tips and strategies, they may not apply universally. In some markets, the dynamics might necessitate the use of paid advertising on Google Maps for effective visibility. Additionally, depending on the nature and scale of your business, investing in advertising might prove more cost-efficient than the time invested in manual optimization.
Always consider your specific business needs, resources, and market environment when making decisions about your presence on Google Maps or any other digital platform.