In today’s competitive market, a strong online presence is vital for brick-and-mortar businesses. For laundromats, the Google My Business (GMB) listing is one of the most effective tools to attract local customers. According to marketing agency Spynr, properly optimizing your GMB listing can enhance your visibility, drive foot traffic, and increase your customer base. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure your laundromat’s Google My Business profile stands out and performs its best.
Claim and Verify Your Listing
First things first: if you haven’t already, claim and verify your GMB listing. Verifying your business gives you full control over your profile, allowing you to update essential information and interact with customers. Google will typically send a postcard to your business address with a code to complete the verification process.
Optimize Business Information
Accurate, up-to-date information builds trust with potential customers and helps your listing rank better in local searches.
– Business Name: Ensure that your laundromat’s name is spelled correctly and matches the signage and branding you use.
– Address: Double-check your business address to avoid any issues with map location.
– Phone Number: Use a local phone number, not a toll-free or shared line, to reinforce that you are a local business.
– Hours of Operation: Update your hours regularly, including holiday schedules and any temporary closures.
– Website URL: If you have a website, add it to your listing. This directs traffic to your site, where customers can learn more about your services and any special promotions.
– Category: Choose the primary category that best represents your business, such as “Laundromat” or “Laundry Service.” If you offer additional services (like wash-and-fold or pickup/delivery), add secondary categories to further refine your listing.
Add High-Quality Photos
Photos give customers a feel for your laundromat before they even step inside. Profiles with photos receive significantly more clicks, so invest time in curating quality visuals.
– Exterior and Interior Shots: Show customers what to expect, from your machines and seating area to your building’s exterior.
– Equipment Photos: Highlight any modern or high-capacity machines you offer, as well as any amenities like vending machines or a waiting area.
– Team Photos: If you have staff members, consider adding a few shots to introduce your friendly team.
– Special Features: Showcase any unique amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, or eco-friendly machines.
Encourage and Respond to Reviews
Reviews can significantly impact your listing’s rank and appeal. Customers trust the opinions of previous visitors, so a strong portfolio of positive reviews can help convert potential customers.
– Ask for Reviews: Encourage happy customers to leave reviews by placing signage near your exit or mentioning it during transactions.
– Respond to Reviews: Engage with every review—thank customers for positive feedback, and respond professionally to any criticism. A respectful reply to a negative review can turn a bad experience into a positive one.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your laundromat’s Google My Business listing is essential to staying competitive in today’s digital-first world.
