What’s the number one place people go when they’re looking for a new hairdresser or beauty therapist? Yup, Google – it’s a no brainer!
In fact, four out of five consumers search for local businesses online. Which means if you have a salon, spa or barber shop, the potential for Google to help connect you with potential clients is enormous.
So how can you take advantage of the online powerhouse that is Google? Read on for my top five things you should be doing on Google, like yesterday.
1. Google My Business
Google My Business is a relatively quick win when it comes to ramping up your online presence. It appears when someone searches on Google or in Google Maps for a business like yours, and essentially lets you strut your stuff online.
Your listing includes all the must-haves that will have new clients falling for you online. From reviews to special offers, images to blog posts, opening hours, links to your website, maps and more (seriously, I could go on!), you can customise your Google My Business so that it showcases you at your very best.
Here’s where things get a bit technical: the more optimised your profile is with keywords that Google loves, the better your chances of getting found online.
2. Google Reviews
Ah, reviews, you’ve got to love them. You and I both know that a good online review can give you instant credibility, it’s almost as good as a personal referral when it comes to drumming up new business.
What you might not know is that reviews are also essential for your SEO – otherwise known as Google juice! Having plenty of reviews can do wonders for your local search ranking, helping potential clients in your area find you.
If you’re worried about those negative people who seem to get a kick out of posting nasty reviews, don’t let it put you off – providing a genuine response will show that you care, and you can also take steps to remove any reviews you think are inappropriate.
3. Mobile-responsive website
More than 60% of people searching on Google are using mobile devices, which is why it’s so important to make sure your website is “mobile responsive” – (a fancy way of saying it looks as gorgeous on mobile or tablet as it does on PC).
Google loves a website that look great on a phone or tablet – so much so, that if your’s is mobile responsive it’s more likely to outrank your competitors’ websites that are not. Yep, that’s right. Having a mobile responsive website could mean the difference from reigning supreme at the number one spot on Google, or fighting for a place on the second page.
So if you don’t already have a mobile responsive website (and you can find that out right here), I highly recommend you get onto that, pronto!
4. Google Ads
Google Ads are right up there with my top things you should be doing on Google. Although you will need to dig a little more deeply into your pockets for this one, it is 100% worth it if you have the right, industry-specific strategy.
Creating ads that make you look good and communicate your unique value proposition are going to be the most effective, as they will help potential customers see you before they even consider the competition.
I’m not going to lie though – Google Ads are enough to send even an experienced marketer’s mind spinning, let alone a business owner who’s already hustling like crazy!
5. Reserve with Google
Even though this product hasn’t hit UK shores just yet, it’s something we’re sitting on the edge of our seats for. Why? Because once it officially launches, your clients will be able to book an appointment straight from your Google My Business listing.
They’re already doing this in the States – so it’s fine. We can wait patiently… maybe…
