Ever wondered why some laundromats always seem bustling with customers while others remain quiet? The secret might not be in the detergent they use or the machines they have. It could be as simple as their online presence, specifically on Google Business.
Now, you might be thinking, "I run a laundromat, not a tech company. Why do I need a Google Business Page?" Well, let's dive into the reasons.
1. Visibility in Local Searches
When someone types "laundromat near me" or "best dry cleaner in [city name]" into Google, what pops up? If you have a Google Business Page, there's a good chance it's you! Google prioritizes local businesses in search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. But if you don’t have a Google Business Page, then maybe a competitor pops up. And maybe that customer gives them a try, and then because they’ve been there once, they go again. And again. And you lost a potential customer, all for the sake of taking a few minutes to fill out a few details about your business. Crazy, right?
2. Trust and Credibility
Did you know that Businesses with Google My Business profiles are 94% more likely to be viewed as reputable. And when your laundromat has a Google Business Page filled with positive reviews, it builds trust. People are more likely to visit a business with good reviews than one without any online presence. But it’s not just the positive reviews that drive credibility, believe it or not it might actually help to have a handful of lower star reviews as well. Google have found that customers tend to trust businesses more when they have a mix of reviews. The truth is every review is an opportunity. Positive reviews are of course appealing but even the less positive reviews can provide valuable customer feedback, guide you on where to improve your service and give you an opportunity to engage directly with customers. Your active participation on the platform humanizes your business - you’re no longer a busines, you’re a business owner who cares about their customers.
3. Google Maps Integration
Ever used Google Maps to find a place? Of course, you have! Who hasn’t? And so have your potential customers, in fact 86% of people look up a business’s location using Google Maps. By having a Google Business Page, your laundromat automatically gets listed on Google Maps. This means when someone's searching for a nearby laundromat, they can easily find directions to yours.
4. Showcase Your Services
Maybe you offer eco-friendly washing options, or perhaps you have a 24-hour drop-off service. Your Google Business Page is the perfect place to highlight these services. Plus, you can post updates, promotions, or any other news you want to share.
5. Engage with Customers
Your customers can leave reviews, ask questions, and even book services directly from your Google Business Page. It's a fantastic way to engage with them and build a loyal customer base. And as we’ve already discussed, customers love to see those reviews.
6. It's Free!
Yes, you read that right. They say that nothing in life is free but setting up a Google Business Page won't cost you a dime. It’s genuinely free advertising for your business, and considering the benefits, it's a no-brainer!
Now, let's sprinkle in some stats to emphasize the importance:
- 98% of consumers say they read online reviews for local businesses.
- 87% of consumers used Google to evaluate local businesses in 2022, up from 81% in 2021.
- 94% of calls to local businesses come from GMB on weekdays.
With numbers like these, it's clear that having an online presence, especially on Google Business, is crucial for laundromats and dry cleaners.
So, if you're still on the fence about setting up a Google Business Page, think about the potential customers you might be missing out on. It's an easy step that can make a significant difference in your business's success.
Remember, in today's digital age, your online presence is just as important as the quality of service you provide in your store. So, give your laundromat the online boost it deserves with a Google Business Page!
Cheers to cleaner clothes and a bustling business! 🧺🎉