How To Use Google Posts:
Google My Business (GMB) plays a critical role in establishing a strong online presence. Being a significant component of GMB, Google Posts signals the Google Algorithm about updates related to your brand and enhances the customer communication channel. Wondering how to use Google Post for your business? Read on to find out!
Best Posting Practices
Some standard yet effective Google Posts strategies are mentioned below:
1. Time Limit
Note that Google Posts are only features for a week. Therefore, unless you post an event with specified data, ensure that you only post relevant content for seven days.
2. Avoid Stock Pictures
According to the recent Google Posts update, stock photos are now banned. To remain authentic, upload organic content such as pictures of your office, team, and projects.
3. Consider Character Count
Although there is no character limit when it comes to Google Posts, keep in mind that only the first hundred characters will be displayed, and the rest will be covered by the “Learn More” tab. Hence, keep the content within the word count.
4. Omit Hashtags
Unlike Facebook, Instagram and Twitter hashtag only clutter your Google Posts. Hence, avoid them at all costs.
5. Always Include a Call-to-Action
The primary aim of Google Posts is to grasp the audience’s attention and bring them to your website. Therefore, always add a Call-to-Action (CTA) at the end of the content. For example; Contact Us, Sign Up, Learn More and Buy Now!
Regulated Industries
Even with the freedom to post anything that you want, note that some of the business sectors have posting restrictions. According to the rules and regulations of Google Posts, you are not allowed to post content related to alcohol, weapons, gambling, tobacco, and pharmaceuticals. Although this may be discouraging, there are digital marketing strategies that regulated industries can use to promote their content on Google Posts.
Industry-Specific Google Posts Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert-advised tips and tricks on how to use Google Post for your business:
Medical | Chiropractors, Dentists and Doctors
When looking for a medical professional on Google, people will be searching for a long-term provider that they can trust. Hence, everything from your education, awards, reviews to your area of expertise matters. Therefore, when creating Posts, make sure to post personalized and relatable content. Here are some ideas:
- Introduce your team members
- Tell them about your services
- Offers and promotions
- Blog and articles
Home | Cleaners, Roofers, Plumbers
If you own a home service-providing company, your main target should be to gain customers’ trust. Therefore, your Posts should feature; your qualification, awards, reviews, and any unique product or service that you offer. Moreover, home services are usually a time-sensitive need. Therefore, if you offer 24/7 services or are operational on holiday, make sure to include it in your Google Posts.
Food | Catering, Bars, Restaurants
An easy Google Posts strategy for bars and restaurant owners is to post content related to drinks, food, special deals, delivery time, and happy hours. Moreover, your customers will also want to know about your non-traditional working hours. Also, if possible, link your Google Posts introduction to your online menu.
Travel | Venues, Event Planning, Travel Agents
If you are a travel agent or are an event planner, note that graphics are essential. Therefore, do post beautiful and attractive pictures of wedding venues and travel destinations. You can also share information related to event packages and upcoming trips. Another great idea for your future Google Posts is to write blogs about how to plan a wedding or fun travel tips and tricks.
Health and Beauty | Gyms, Salons, Clothing Stores and Spas
When talking about the health and beauty department, one of the most common trend is featuring spa packages, hair care, skin care products, retail items, and info on other services. To drive traffic to your social media accounts, use unique CTAs and post engaging content such as blogs, before after pictures, and behind the scenes videos.
Wrapping It Up!
In an ever-changing digital world, Posts are an efficient and simple way to humanize your online content and build trust with your consumers. Now that you know how to use Google Post for your business, go ahead and make your content more relevant and optimized.