What Other Information Should Be Included for Google?
Short Answer: To optimize your presence on Google, it is important to include your phone number, website, location, service area, opening hours, and holiday opening hours. Providing comprehensive information helps Google understand and rank your business better, enhancing your visibility in search results.
Full Explanation
Google values detailed and accurate information about businesses. The more complete the data you provide, the stronger your chances are of being properly indexed and displayed in local search results. Essential details such as your phone number allow potential customers to contact you directly, while including your website gives them a way to explore your products or services further.
Your location lets Google associate your business with a specific area, which is crucial for local SEO. Additionally, specifying your service area can expand your reach by showing that you serve multiple locations or neighborhoods. Including opening hours helps customers know when to visit or get in touch, while holiday opening hours ensure that temporary changes to your schedule are clearly communicated.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Phone Number: Add a current and reachable phone number so customers can contact you easily.
- Website: Include your official website URL to provide more information and enhance trust.
- Location: Clearly list your physical address or location for local searches.
- Service Area: Define the geographic areas your business serves, especially if you cover multiple locations.
- Opening Hours: Indicate regular business hours so customers know when you are available.
- Holiday Opening Hours: Include any special hours for holidays to inform customers of schedule changes.
Real Examples
Consider a local bakery that lists its phone number and website on Google My Business. Alongside, the bakery adds its exact location and mentions neighborhoods it delivers to as its service area. It also displays regular opening hours from 7 am to 7 pm and updates holiday hours during Christmas. This complete information helps Google show this bakery’s profile to customers searching locally, improving discoverability and customer satisfaction.
Common Mistakes
- Omitting the phone number or listing an outdated one, preventing customer contact.
- Not providing a website URL, which may reduce credibility.
- Failing to specify the service area, limiting visibility to only the immediate location.
- Leaving out holiday opening hours, confusing customers about availability during special periods.
FAQs
Q: Why does Google require my service area?
A: Specifying your service area helps Google show your business to potential customers searching within those regions.
Q: Should I include holiday hours every year?
A: Yes, updating your holiday opening hours annually ensures customers receive accurate information during holidays.
Q: Can I use multiple phone numbers?
A: It’s best to use a primary phone number that customers can reliably reach for consistency and simplicity.
Key Takeaways
- Providing comprehensive business information is essential for Google SEO.
- Include phone number, website, location, service area, and detailed opening hours.
- Don’t forget to update holiday opening hours to keep customers informed.
- Complete and accurate information increases your chances of higher visibility on Google.