The Internet is the modern equivalent of Main Street, and Google is the town’s busiest thoroughfare. As a business owner, your digital storefront needs to be visible, but it can be a frustrating and bewildering experience when your business is not showing up in Google’s search results. You’ve established your website, but it’s like putting up a shop in the desert if it’s not showing up on Google. The question you might be asking yourself is: “What else do I need to do?”
This blog post is designed to answer that question. We’ll guide you through key steps that you need to take to ensure that your business is found on Google.
What to Do If Your Business Is Not Showing Up on Google
Getting noticed by Google is not an immediate process, it requires some effort and consistency. Here are five steps you can take to ensure your business shows up in Google search results.
1. Double-Check Your Google My Business Verification
First, ensure your business is verified on Google My Business. It’s a free tool to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps.
If you’ve not yet verified your business, Google won’t prioritize showing it in the search results. This process requires you to complete a form and confirm your business’s location. Once completed, it can take several days for Google to verify your listing, so patience is key.
2. Choose the Right Google My Business Categories
Google My Business allows you to select categories for your business. This helps Google understand what your business does, leading to better placement in relevant search results.
Choose your categories carefully. Start with a primary category that best represents your business, then add secondary categories if they apply. But be cautious – inaccurate or excessive categorization can lead to penalties.
3. Register Your Business with Google Search Console
Google Search Console is another free tool offered by Google that helps you understand and improve how Google sees your site.
By registering your website with Google Search Console, you’re effectively telling Google your site exists, thus making it easier for Google to index it. You can also submit your sitemap here to help further Google understand the structure of your site.
4. Look for Inconsistent Business Listing Information
Google values accurate and consistent information. If there are multiple listings for your business or discrepancies in contact information across various platforms, this can confuse Google and make your business harder to find.
Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all listings. This includes your website, social media platforms, and other directory listings.
5. Ensure Your Business Applies to All Google Guidelines
Google has established guidelines to maintain a level playing field and prevent manipulation of search results. Ensure that your website and business practices adhere to these guidelines. This includes not using misleading keywords or making false claims about your business.
Google takes these guidelines seriously, and non-compliance can result in your business not appearing in search results.
What If None of These Tips Work?
If you’ve tried these tips and your business is still not showing up on Google, it may be time to consider professional help. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) experts specialize in improving online visibility and can analyze your situation to provide customized solutions.
Remember, getting your business on Google’s search results is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Patience, consistency, and a strategic approach are keys to a prominent online presence. Stay persistent; soon enough, your business will be lighting up the digital main street.
