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You are probably NOT the only embroidery shop, custom t-shirt business or event wholesale t-shirt printer in your local area.
But if you’re reading this and take action afterwards, you just might be the one on the tip of everyone’s tongue if they’re looking for what you do!
It’s that simple.
And you probably already know this if you’ve ever actually used Google to search for something you need in your area.
You unlock your mobile phone, type or talk in “_______ near me” and PRESTO! Google displays a map with all the businesses that fit your request.
And they’re displayed by how close they are, their Reviews rating
The same thing happens if you’re on a desktop or laptop computer.
In the image here, you can see what comes up when searching for “custom embroidery Nottinghamshire” as an example.
But the questions are:
If you don’t already have a Google Business Profile, you’re probably not showing up on local search in any useful way. And if you’re not sure if you do or not, just google your business name and see if you show up.
Most of the time Google will create a maps listing for you based on available online data, but it’s never good. The smart move it to look for the “Claim this Business” link on the profile that shows up.
If you don’t show up at all, then your first step to local success is (AFTER reading the rest of this article) to go to https://www.google.com/intl/en_uk/business/ and walk through the steps to get your profile started.
Fill out ALL of the information on your profile. And make sure it’s all 100% accurate.
And make sure that it’s the same exact information that is listed across the web.
That means is your company name is Mary’s Embroidery Shop, LLC, make sure you list it as that – not Mary’s Embroidery Business, or M’s Embroidery, etc.
Even more importantly, pay attention to your address when you fill it in. Google may drive by and take pictures of that address and will associate the street view with it. It’s makes no sense to give your neighbors the free advertising.
You will have the opportunity to tell your neighbors, and Google, what your business is all about. And the words you use to do so is one of the ways that google matches what people are searching for with your business.
This is where some real thought should take place before you start typing.
Image your ideal customer is looking for you..
What are the words they will use to find you?
What can you tell them about you and your business that would make them choose to come to you?
Here’s a great example of one of the search winners when searching for “custom t-shirt printing Birmingham UK”
From Stitch 24 | T-shirt Printing Birmingham
“Welcome to Stitch 24, where t-shirt printing and embroidery are our cup of tea in the lively city of Birmingham! We’re your one-stop-shop for all things custom apparel, from screen printing to embroidery, DTF prints, and even cut and sew—seriously, we’ve got it all! Got a design that’s begging to be seen? We’ve got your back! Our talented team of crafty magicians will turn your ideas into wearable works of art. Whether you want vibrant screen prints or snazzy embroidery, we’ll make sure your gear stands out in the crowd. Personalisation is our middle name (well, not legally, but you get the point). We offer a smorgasbord of customisation options, so your gear is as unique as you are.”
Making sure you attract the attention of the searcher once you’re Google listing is displayed is the next step. And the way to do that is with QUALITY PHOTOS.
Photos that display what you do and/or the personality of your business.
Take a look at the results of search for “Custom T-Shirt Stores” in Mansfield.
Do any of the images you see make you want to stop by? Give them a call? Other than their proximity to you, which of those businesses, if any, make you want choose them?
Make your next google search about shooting great product photos on your phone. Take some pictures of your shop, your people working and your customers if they’ll let you.
Google is giving you the opportunity to win new customers here – FOR FREE! Make some effort to help.
One of the first ways you probably make a decision on who to call when you’re searching for a local provider is by looking at:
And that’s a key factor in Google pushing you to the top of local search.
While Google doesn’t say this directly, it’s safe to say that the more good reviews you have the more likely people are to find and buy from your business.
Image: gmb reviews
The Google Business profile you create is the ideal place to show that, and can be one of the greatest sources of future business.
Encouraging every customer to do a google review for you is KEY!
There’s a lot more to optimizing and maximizing your opportunity to get found online using a Google Business Profile but just taking the steps above can have a big impact on your business!
Watch for future posts where we’ll address things like:
Here at YES Group, we’re dedicated to helping your business succeed! Reach out if you have any questions about equipment, service, OR marketing your business!
