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Google My Business Updates: Do You Use A Descriptor?

Are Google My Business Descriptors for Your Carlsbad Business Done?

 
Are Google My Business Descriptors Done?
 
Earlier this month – on December 2nd – Google rolled out another major update to their Google My Business guidelines.

OK, maybe guidelines should be titled, “never concrete and subject to change suggestions we can possibly penalize you for,” but that’s another argument – one none of us will win.

As stated by Google,

Following these guidelines helps avoid common problems, including changes to your information, or, in some cases, removal of your business information from Google.

So what’s the story, what do Carlsbad businesses need to know in order to secure their Google My Business page(s) ranking?

Basically it’s a name recognition thing, but first a little background.

Google had always suggested (read: mandated), that the business name with regards to the Google Places, Google+ Local, or Google My Business listings, always be consistent with the real-world business name.

For example, something like John Q. Public, D.D.S. was the suggested business name under Google My Business guidelines if in fact the dental practice was on the books (corporate entity name/DBA) as such.

Then earlier this year, (February 2014 to be exact), Google announced that business with Local pages (ones that appear in search results & maps – as opposed to Brand pages which do not get indexed in maps or “local pack” results) were allowed to use what they called descriptors in their business name.

What’s a Descriptor?

 

An example of a descriptor for a dental practice Google My Business page would be something like, Dogpatch Family Dentistry: John Q. Public, D.D.S. – with Dogpatch Family Dentistry being the descriptor.

Fast forward to December 2014, and we have witnessed yet another flip-flop by Google with regards to their guidelines for local business pages. At this time, Google only deems solo practitioners as those worthy of still using the descriptors attributes in the business name.

This is how they lay it out for all the solo Carlsbad practitioners out there to play it out…

According to the guidelines you can review here, solo practitioners’ Google My Business pages should be titled using the following format: [brand/company]: [practitioner name].

So say if yours is a mutli-doctor practice (or real estate office, law office…), each “practitioner” is still allowed a specific Google My Business page – given they actually maintain office hours that jibe with what their listing communicates.

Here’s exactly what Google has to say on the subject: (more…)

How to Add Your Carlsbad Business to Apple Maps

Apple Launches “Maps Connect” Self-Service Local Listings Portal

 

Apple “Maps Connect” is a new self-service tool designed to get your local business data directly into Apple Maps. For most Carlsbad businesses your info will most likely already be listed – BUT you will still need to claim the listing to ensure consistency of the data.

Apple Maps Connect enables the DIY business owners (in the US only – for now) or their authorized representatives (not agencies at present) to be able to quickly and easily claim & edit your business listing directly in Apple Maps.

This service is totally free – as it should be – and the listings (or corrected listings) appear on Apple Maps on desktop computers & mobile phones or tablets.

 

Apple Maps for Carlsbad Businesses

How to Add Your Carlsbad Business Data Directly into Apple Maps

 

Primarily the business name, address, & phone info is most important. Then it’s just a matter of choosing the correct categories, connecting your social media profiles, and verifying your Apple Maps listing.

Users sign in with their Apple IDs and passwords. If you don’t have an Apple ID you have to create one. Below are some screen shots showing the steps involved in the sign-up & claims process.

Just make sure you are consistent with every other local listing or search engine listing (like Yelp, or Google My Business..etc.) you have already claimed. Best practice is to be VERY specific, for example: (more…)

How the New Google My Business App Benefits Your Carlsbad Business

Google My Business Updates Their App

Yesterday Google announced their newly updated Google My Business App. According to their blog post…

Running a successful small business is about finding and connecting with the right customers. Business owners are increasingly using their smartphones, and so today we are making enhancements to both the Google My Business and the AdWords Express apps. We hope this makes it easier to find the right customers, whether they are looking for you at their desktop computer or on their phone on the go.

In true competitive fashion the app is currently only available on Android phones but according to Google, an iOS version will be out soon enough.

How Can Your Carlsbad Business Benefit from the Google My Business App?

Two ways: responding to reviews & seeing listing insights about calls to your business and clicks to get directions. (more…)