Listing your business on Google is a crucial element of getting customers to you. Without a listing on Google Business, not only will people be unable to find you via search, they also have less reason to trust you. 

Consumers use Google to find more than just a link to your webpage. The addition of information such as opening hours, reviews, and photos can help a customer make the decision to shop with you. Without those things, they may look elsewhere, so it is very important to put the small amount of work needed in to be sure that when people look for you, they find everything they need to know.

Step 1

Create a Complete Google My Business Account

This is the first part of getting your business listed on Google. When you search for a company or shop in your area, you have probably noticed that you get more than a link to their website. A sidebar with information such as photos of the premises and interior, a map to find it, reviews, an address and even more appears. 

To achieve this for your business, you should include all relevant information when you create your Google Business account. Make sure you fill out every section on the page. Include information such as your phone number, a description and so on. Google ranks businesses based on how complete their page is, so the more you can include, the better. 

Step 2

Pick a Specific Category

If you want to show up in search results for a specific product, brand or other type of business, make sure you choose the right category. For example, your main business may be trading card games, so you should select that to ensure people see your business when they search for that product. 

Secondary or sub categories allow you to include additional products, so if you are also a café or sell other collectibles, you can add those too. Taking care to include all the relevant products you stock and things you offer is very important, that’s how Google decides what to show searchers. The better you describe what you offer, the more likely you are to show up in searches, and the more Google will treat your business as trustworthy. 

Step 3

Content is Key

Two things drive business more than anything else in Google searches, photos, and reviews. Customers want to know what to expect and giving them as much of that information as you can, will help them make the decision to use your business.

Up-to-date photos are an easy way to ensure people can recognise your business, so if you change signage, interior décor, or window displays, make sure you update your business accordingly. Reviews are a little harder because they require your customers to write something. If you have regulars, it can be worth asking them for a few positive words to help you out or suggest it to satisfied customers. 

Having positive reviews can make an enormous difference, as it’s a huge reason for a customer to choose you over a competitor. Reviews are an indicator that you can be trusted and offer a great service. Word of mouth is a powerful tool.

So that’s it, you’ve got the three steps to listing on Google Business, you’re ready to get started! 

Another great step you can take as a trading card retailer is to sign up for the CFB Marketplace, where you can sell to customers across the United States on a platform dedicated to the needs of card stores. Find out more here.