Setting Up Your Google My Business Profile
Setting Up Your Google My Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s dive into the practical details of getting started with GMB. Follow these steps to set up your profile effectively.
Creating a Google Account
If you don’t already have a Google Business account, it’s time to create one. Alternatively, you can opt to set up a separate business account if you want to keep your personal and business profiles distinct.
Follow the registration instructions provided in the link above, or feel free to reach out if you require any assistance. Once your initial account is established, here are some tips to kickstart your journey:
- Incorporate your primary keyword into your business name. For instance, instead of a general name like “Miss Betty’s Office,” consider something like “Miss Betty’s Psychotherapy Office.”
This addition not only helps potential clients locate you but also bolsters your SEO efforts down the line. - You’ll then be prompted to select a category for your business. Typical categories for therapists include “psychotherapist,” “mental health service,” “mental health clinic,” “counsellor,” and “psychologist.”
- If you already possess a Google Business account but haven’t claimed it as your own yet, or if someone else has taken ownership, you’ll need to request control of the business profile.
Verify Your GMB Profile
Verification of your Google My Business (GMB) profile is essential as it confirms your ownership of the business. Fortunately, the process has become more straightforward, with most individuals now only needing to provide a phone number. Google will send a confirmation code to your phone, and once you input it, your listing will become active automatically.
In cases where phone verification is not feasible, alternative verification methods are available, including email, video, or the receipt of a postcard sent by Google. You can find more information about these methods here.
Occasionally, GMB profile verifications may be denied because someone else has already claimed it, such as a former business partner or employee. Google provides options to request access to the existing listing, allowing the other party three days to respond. Additionally, you have various alternatives, including requesting verification to assert your ownership of the business profile.
While you can choose to complete the verification step at the end of the GMB process, it’s important to note that this step is typically required for your listing to become publicly accessible.
Complete Your Profile with Precision and Thoroughness
When crafting your Google My Business (GMB) profile, it’s crucial to fill out every section with accuracy and attention to detail. The more specific and comprehensive your profile, the better the impression it will leave on prospective clients who want to determine if working with you is the right fit.
Here are some key considerations:
- Practice Description: You have 750 characters at your disposal for your practice description, so make every word count. Address your ideal client directly, and include details about your specialties and extensive experience.
- Address or Service Areas: You’ll be asked to input your physical address. If you prefer not to do so, Google allows you to enter up to 20 service areas where you practice. It’s advisable to include all relevant areas to maximize your visibility.
- Website and Contact Information: If you have a website, be sure to add it to your profile. Additionally, enter your business phone number (the one you use for client communication) to ensure consistency with the contact information on your website and other business materials.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll create a robust and inviting GMB profile that resonates with potential clients seeking the right therapist for their needs.
Enhance Your Profile with Engaging Visuals
Visual content is a powerful tool that never fails to captivate online audiences. As a therapist, providing potential clients with a glimpse of who you are can be especially beneficial. It’s highly recommended to incorporate at least one clear, professional photo of yourself into your Google My Business (GMB) profile.
Additionally, you might want to consider including photos of:
- Your Office: Showcase your therapy space to give clients a sense of what to expect when they visit.
- Neighbourhood: Highlighting your local area can foster a sense of familiarity and trust.
- Brand Personality: Share images that reflect your brand’s identity and values.
- Therapeutic Philosophy: Visuals that encapsulate your therapeutic approach can be enlightening for potential clients.
- Logo: If you have a logo for your practice, don’t forget to include it as well.
By incorporating these visual elements, you’ll make your GMB profile more engaging and informative, helping potential clients feel more comfortable and connected with you even before they reach out.
Promote Exclusive Offers and Stay Updated
Sharing timely updates and special offers within your profile can significantly boost engagement, increasing the likelihood of prospective clients booking therapy sessions with you.
Consider these strategies:
- Limited-Time Discounts: Offer incentives such as a 15 percent discount on the first session or a package deal for clients who book by a specified date.
- Event Announcements: Keep your audience informed about upcoming events, promotions, or partnerships relevant to your therapy practice.
By incorporating these updates and offers into your profile, you create a sense of urgency and interest among potential clients, encouraging them to take action and connect with your therapy services.
Establishing Your Google My Business for Increased Therapy Clientele
Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated the core process of setting up your Google My Business (GMB) profile, a significant milestone in advancing your therapy practice. This pivotal step opens doors to attracting more local individuals, thereby enabling you to provide valuable support to your community. Hopefully, this aligns perfectly with your mission, creating a mutually beneficial outcome for all.
Furthermore, as you begin to connect with more nearby individuals and clients, remember to harness the data-tracking capabilities within GMB. Keep a close eye on the “profile strength” and performance sections of your GMB account. These insights will help you refine your approach and optimise your online presence for even greater success.
