Boost Your Accommodation Business with Google My Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for accommodation providers such as motels, hotels, short-term rentals, and campgrounds. One of the most effective tools to enhance visibility and attract guests is Google My Business (GMB). This article explores how leveraging GMB can benefit your business and provides a clear guide to get started.

Seekom google my business

Why Google My Business Matters:

  1. Enhanced Visibility: A well-optimised GMB profile ensures your accommodation appears prominently in local Google searches. This visibility is key to capturing the attention of travellers and locals searching for places to stay in your area.
  2. Improved Customer Engagement: GMB allows direct interaction with potential guests through reviews, questions, updates, and more. Engaging with customers on GMB builds trust and credibility, encouraging more bookings.
  3. Enhanced Local SEO: By optimising your GMB profile with accurate information, appealing photos, and regular updates, you can improve your local SEO rankings. This means more organic traffic and potential bookings for your accommodation business.

1. Sign Up for Google My Business:

You can now set up and schedule emails to be sent to guests during select time periods. This will be useful for those who want to send messages to guests at key times, perhaps to inform them of visitor rules during event weekends or remind them to keep noise down after midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Sign Up for Google My Business
Seekom google sign in

2. Enter Your Business Details:

  • Provide your business name, address, phone number, and website URL.
  • Select the appropriate business category (e.g., motel, hotel, campground).

3. Verify Your Business:

  • Choose the verification method (usually by phone or mail to your business address).
  • Follow Google's instructions to complete the verification process.

4. Optimise Your GMB Profile:

  • Upload high-quality photos of your accommodations, amenities, and local attractions.
  • Craft a compelling business description using relevant keywords to attract potential guests.
  • Ensure accurate business hours, including any special hours during holidays or events.

5. Utilise GMB Features:

  • Regularly post updates, promotions, events, and special offers to keep your profile active and engaging.
  • Respond promptly to customer reviews and messages to demonstrate excellent customer service and foster positive relationships.
uploaded images to Google bussiness account
how to create GMB

6. Monitor Performance and Insights:

  • Use GMB's insights to track how customers find your business and which actions they take (e.g., website visits, calls).
  • Adjust your strategy based on these insights to continually optimise your GMB presence.

In conjunction with Google My Business profile you can integrate Google Hotel Booking links with your profile. This will help you get bookings directly from the Google Search page. For more information, please visit our fully managed plan option.

If you are confused about what products or services suit your needs better, get in touch with our support team and we will guide you through.

Conclusion: Google My Business is a powerful tool for NZ and AU accommodation businesses aiming to increase their online visibility and attract more guests. By utilising its features effectively—enhancing visibility, engaging customers, and optimising your profile—you can position your business for success in the competitive short term rental market.