Does your business show up on Google? It seems like everyone these days has a smartphone—and they have become one of the most common ways for customers to find a new restaurant, retail store, or service to test out. Think about the last time you wanted to find a new place to visit. Chances are, you used the internet like the rest of us. Although it is still a special experience to stumble across a hidden gem, the power of the digital space has never been greater. According to Google, customers are 2.7 times more likely to consider a business reputable and 70% more likely to visit if they find a complete profile during their search.

Having an active Google Business Profile, previously referred to as Google My Business (GMB), can be the difference maker when it comes to growing your business. People are always on the lookout for something new, so it’s important to not limit your business’s reach. So, what is the meaning of GMB? Why is it important for your business? And how can you make your business truly stand out on the platform?

What’s GMB’s True Meaning?

GMB’s meaning goes a lot further than just being an acronym. GMB stands for “Google My Business.” Now known as the Google Business Profile, this platform is designed to help businesses stand out when customers search on Google Maps and Search. Without a profile, it becomes very difficult for customers to learn more about your business and where they can find you. “Restaurants near me” is one of the top trending searches. In fact, from 2013 to 2017, the “near me” search query grew by around 900%. Talk about an exponential increase in GMB’s value and meaning. You’ll want to be sure your business is visible to locals and those visiting your area looking for something new to buy or experience.

Now, where are customers finding these businesses? Where once we utilized road maps, now Google Maps reigns supreme. In 2021 alone, over 25 million people in the U.S. downloaded Google Maps. The app has over 5 billion downloads all time and is consistently used by millions each month. As one of the most popular tools for finding businesses within driving distance, the time is now to leverage its power and take advantage of what a Google Business Profile has to offer.

Creating Your Google Business Profile

This is what customers see when they find your business on Google Maps. Accuracy is everything, especially in a world where one bad review online can lower your reputation in the eyes of potential customers. Your profile should include an address, hours of operation, website or social media links, and phone number. Customers can add photos, leave reviews, and even respond to review threads, giving you the potential to take advantage of one of the most powerful word-of-mouth marketing tools available in today’s digital world. GMB marketing is unique to every business and can be a major factor in convincing potential customers to visit your location.

The Benefits of Google My Business

GMB’s purpose is all about making your business perform better. Through your Google Business Profile, there are many benefits to take advantage of—from increased visibility to the potential for higher profits.

Better Insights Into Performance

One of the best benefits of running a Google Business Profile is the ability to enjoy more detailed insights into your business’s performance. Customer reviews aside, GMB marketing can show you a wide array of detailed reports, including how many views you receive to how your customers are interacting with your profile. Your GMB profile can also give you keyword recommendations and insights into the most popular search queries in your industry. This can allow you to better plan your marketing strategies to target those who are most likely to be interested in your services.

One of the most important parts of marketing, especially to your local crowd, is your SEO presence. And who said GMB’s meaning in this space was worthless? The more insights you receive, the better you’ll be able to optimize your keywords and website efficiency. Over 80% of smartphone shoppers use a version of the “near me” search, so it is crucial to pay attention and benefit from the insights you receive through your Google Business Profile.

Improving Your Business’s Reputation

Reputation is everything in today’s market. If your business is not on Google, it will not only limit your reach but represent a major road bump in developing your reputation in the eyes of shoppers. By allowing customers to leave honest, original reviews, your Google Business Profile will go a long way in helping your business’s reputation over time. While you may not see overnight success, the more positive reviews your business receives, the more likely you’ll be to attract new customers. Do you know of a successful business in today’s market that does not show up on Google?

GMB Marketing Can Expand Your Business’s Reach

As your reputation grows and your marketing tactics are refined, the meaning of GMB will take on a new form. A properly run GMB profile can help your business find new customers and even increase profits. As previously mentioned, operating without a Google Business Profile will limit the number of customers that can learn about what makes your business unique. By increasing your visibility to the 86% of customers who search Google Maps for a business’s location, you could begin to see a steadier flow of foot traffic to your location(s).

Managing Your GMB Marketing 

Once you’re up and running, there is much more that goes into a successful Google My Business profile. As mentioned, the meaning of GMB goes much further than just a simple pin on a map. As reviews start to trickle through, careful monitoring, analysis, and optimizations are key. This is no easy task. Whether you run a small or large business, Momentum is the partner you need. Our team of marketing and SEO experts is on a mission to track performance, optimize SEO so your best reviews are elevated, and optimize your Google Business Profile so your business stands out.Momentum works with over 45 listing services, including Google, making it easier than ever to find, convert, and connect with a world of online shoppers. We’re here to help tell your story and improve your customers’ journeys along the way. Gain momentum for your business and get started today. The meaning of GMB has never been more valuable.