Business Insider
Why should I claim my contracting business on Google?
by Heather Mahr
For trade professionals who rely on traditional print advertising methods to promote their businesses, the idea of using the internet as a marketing tool might seem like a challenge. But whether you’re a plumber, HVAC professional or general contractor in the digital age, if you don’t have an established online presence, then you’re missing out. One of the simplest ways to start promoting your services on the web is to claim your business on Google.com. Claiming your business takes only a few easy steps, and you’ll have better chances of gaining new customers as a result. See how you can grow your bottom line and learn about the other advantages of claiming your contracting business on Google.
Top 5 benefits of claiming your contracting business on Google
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People search locally
According to one study, 88% of consumers who do a local search on their smartphone visit or call a store within a day, and 46% of all Google searches are for local searches. This means that people often use search engines, like Google, to find information that is relevant to them in their area. By claiming your business, you will have an improved chance of showing up in local search results. So, if somebody searches for “plumber near me” and your business is claimed, you’ll have greater odds of gaining a new customer.
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Competitive edge
Whether you’re a plumber, HVAC pro or general contractor, your competitors have likely already claimed their Google location listing. As mentioned above, claiming your business can lead to increased visibility in local search results. This means that you will be more likely to show up at the top of search results with your competitors simply by claiming your business. But what if your competitors haven’t claimed their business? Even better. Claiming your business now could help you gain more visibility over those who are not yet claimed.
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Enhanced credibility
According to another study from the same report mentioned in the first bullet, 97% of people learn more about a local company online than anywhere else. Claiming your location is an easy way to share essential information about your contracting business. If that information isn't readily available to a prospective customer, they might question the legitimacy of your business even if you're well-established and have been operating for years. Claiming your Google location listing can reinforce the credibility of your business.
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Improved customer experiences
Imagine the frustration you would feel if you went to a store at 9:30 in the morning only to find out that the store is closed despite the fact that the sign on their door says they open at 9:00 A.M. Imagine if this is your first time going to this store. Would you go back, or recommend this business to a friend? Probably not. By claiming your business on Google and taking control of your business’s information, you can save future customers from this frustration and ensure a positive first experience with your business.
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It’s free
Unlike advertising in the phone book or newspaper, there is no cost to claim your business on Google. Even if you only gain one new customer, then that’s a positive return on investment for the minimal amount of time it takes to set up your free business listing on Google.
Ready to claim your contracting business on Google? Ferguson.com is here to help you with step-by-step instructions. Consider us your partner with resources to help you grow your professional contracting business. Find ways to work smarter and not harder in Tricks of the Trade, and boost your bottom line with Business Insider.