The way businesses handle marketing and advertising has changed dramatically over the years. Allowing yourself to become comfortable with your current marketing strategy can result in your sign shop business falling behind the competition.
Whether your sign shop is well-established or you’re still in the early years of growing, don’t underestimate the impact of taking your marketing online.
Why Your Sign Shop Needs a Google Business Profile
Setting up a Google Business Profile is the first step you need to take when creating your online presence. Google is huge, and takes up the vast majority of online searches. A 2020 study shows that over 90% of all searches happen on Google. This doesn’t mean you should neglect other search platforms; but if you’re just starting out, Google is the best starting point.
Setting Up Your Sign Shop’s Google Business Profile
Now that you know the why, it’s time to turn your attention to the how. To begin setting up your profile, navigate to the Google Business website and begin to create your profile.
If you click the link above, hit the button that reads “Add your business to Google” and start filling out the information. Add “Sign Shop” as your primary category (you can add additional categories later) Additional categories include: “vehicle wrapping service”, “banner store”, “neon sign shop”, “metal fabricator”, “vinyl sign shop”, and “graphic designer.” Make sure you only add categories that are relevant to your business.
Google offers users a wide amount of options when it comes to setting up their Google Business Profile. Make sure you’re thorough! Fill out every section of your profile, including business name, address, phone number, hours of operation and more.
Adding Visuals to Your Google Business Profile
Having a readily available portfolio of images is crucial in the sign-making industry as it instantly communicates the quality of your work to potential customers.
Make sure to upload high-resolution photos that highlight the best examples of your signs, banners, and other promotional materials. Categorize these images by the type of product and service they represent. This organization makes it easier for potential clients to find what they are looking for and see if you fit their needs.
Adding video content that demonstrates your techniques or showcases time-lapse installations can further engage viewers and give them a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship that goes into each sign.
How to Maintain Your Google Business Profile
Regularly updating your profile with new sign related content and images keeps your business relevant in search results.
Reply to Reviews (Especially the Negative Ones!)
It’s essential to engage with any reviews you receive. It not only shows that you value customer feedback but also that you are committed to resolving issues and improving your service. Always respond professionally to negative reviews, offering to resolve the situation if it’s possible. This approach can turn a negative experience into a positive one and potentially win back a dissatisfied customer.
Add Updates and Pictures of Recent Signs
Regularly updating your Google Business Profile helps keep your content fresh and engaging for potential customers. Post (semi) regular updates about new services, special promotions, or events. Regularly uploading pictures of your recent sign projects showcases your shop’s ongoing work and expertise, and might give your SEO a bit of a nudge!
Having a well-maintained Google Business Profile is crucial for the visibility and growth of your sign shop. By setting up a comprehensive profile, engaging with customer reviews, and keeping your content fresh with regular updates and images, you can boost your online presence and attract more customers.
