Google My Business (GMB) is a free business profile that lets businesses manage how they appear in Google Search and Maps. It is the first thing people see when they type in a business’ name in Google Search, and is one of the most important tools to have set up when you open your school.
This section includes information such as your school’s name, address, hours of operation, and contact information. Since this is the first thing people will see when they look up your school, you will want to make sure that any information listed here is as accurate as possible.
How to Create a Google My Business Account
Step 1: Log into the Google Account you want to be associated with your school (or create an account if you don’t already have one).
Step 2: Go to google.com/business and select “Start now” in the top right-hand corner.
Step 3: Enter your school name and all the information fields.
Step 4: Enter your school’s address.
Step 5: Choose your business category.
Step 6: Add your school’s business phone number or website.
Step 7: Choose a verification option. If you’re not ready to verify your business yet, then click “Try a different method” → “Later.”
How to Verify Your Business
When you are ready to verify your school, there are several ways you can do so. These are:
- By postcard
- By phone
- By email
- Instant verification
- Bulk verification
Just the follow the steps they provide and you will easily be able to verify your business with Google. Once this is completed you will receive access to the reviews and insights portions of your profile
Optimizing Your Profile
Now that your school has been verified you can optimize the rest of your business account with the following information:
Website
Including a link to your website is essential. Google requires that you verify your website’s URL to ensure that you are the authorized owner of the website, so make sure you do that as quickly as possible so you don’t miss out on any potential leads.
Description
Be brief and to the point when describing your school. Make sure you mention what types of martial arts you teach and the age of students that attend.
Hours of Operation
Make sure you include the hours when your school is open so visitors know when they can reach you.
Profile Picture
This is the picture customers will see in Google search results. We recommend you use a picture of your storefront or your logo.
Pictures
To help potential customers get a feel for your business, you can include photos of both inside and outside of your dojo, of students in a class, or of any of the equipment that they train with. Make sure you use high quality images, as these can help increase your school’s credibility.
Images should be at least 720 pixels wide by 720 pixels high and in JPG or PNG files.
Videos
Although optional, videos are a great way to give people an even closer look at your school. If you do decide to use video, make sure it is:
-
- 30 seconds or shorter
- 100 MB or smaller
- 720p resolution or higher
Reviews
The final piece of your Google My Business account is the reviews section. We recommend you use this as an opportunity to show leads that you care about your students and your school’s reputation.
- If the review is positive – respond to whomever posted it and thank them for their support.
- If the review is negative – use it to show that you take their concern seriously and are seeking to remedy the situation.
- Make sure you are extremely courteous when responding, and do not respond back negatively.
Google My Business is a great, easy-to-use tool that will make it easier for your customers to find you. Its high ROI comes directly from that fact when people are searching for your business, they are already interested in your school and want to learn more. So making sure your information is available and up to date means you are one step closer to acquiring a new customer. Want more information about setting up your account? Head here.
Are you a school owner? Macho has Wholesale programs available for those who already have a school, as well as those just getting started. Visit Macho for more information!