Google My Business (GMB) provides one of the simplest yet most effective tools for developing an effective local maps marketing plan. It allows you to make a virtual introduction to anyone conducting an online search for the kinds of services you provide.

Yet, with so many other clinics and medical practices also using GMB, making the most of your Google Maps optimization can help you to stand out from your competition and attract new clients. Here are some ways to get the most traction from Google Maps.

Get Specific with Categories

Make it as easy as possible for Google to find you when the time is right. You won’t be able to do this unless your practice is properly categorized in your GMB profile. From the options provided, choose the categories that most closely describe your services.  You can also choose an additional 2-3 subcategories related to your specialized treatments.

Maintain an Accurate Profile

Your GMB profile is one of the first sources that Google will use to include you in search results. It may also be the first and only source of information that prospective clients encounter before they call or visit your clinic.

Make sure that all the information in your profile is up to date and correct. This includes your address, website, phone number, proper business name, and the names of licensed practitioners and proprietors of your business.

Craft a Creative Description

GMB allots you a 750-word maximum for your unique and compelling business profile. Make the most of it and draw readers in with a warm yet professional tone that conveys a story about your practice, to capture their interest.

Think about what’s unique about your practice. Are you the foremost rehabilitation clinic recommended by local hospitals? Has your practice assisted famous people in the area? Whatever your claim to fame, briefly mention it here and let prospective clients know why your services are exceptional.

Use Great Photos

Images give you a chance to show another layer of professionalism. Use high-quality, relevant photos to capture more attention than you would with just words. An effective use of photography can enhance your credibility and give readers a behind-the-scenes insight into how your practice functions.

Don’t just show them the outside of your building – use photos to showcase the exciting things happening inside, like staff members working with clients on their healing journeys, and your modern equipment and facilities.

Use Local Jargon as Key Phrases

People in the region surrounding your practice likely have a distinct manner of speaking that sets them apart. Google will recognize their unique vernacular when you pepper your content with questions, keywords, and phrases that exactly match the local jargon. This will, in turn, allow you to use your Google posts to attract new clients. Include localeze in your blog posts, social media content, and website, and Google will know exactly where you are, making it much easier for the algorithm to send traffic your way.

Boost Your SEO with Links

Any traffic from a link  to your website can increase your overall web traffic, search engine optimization (SEO), and your Google Maps ranking. Include links on your GMB profile to your website, blog, eBooks, social media, and other prominent content.

Links will also enhance your credibility, letting your profile’s readers know that you are committed to providing consistent quality content that is grounded in your passion for great patient care.

Flaunt Your Testimonials

You no doubt have many satisfied clients who would not hesitate to rave about how you helped to improve their health and their lives. Your GMB profile is the place to show off patient testimonials and reviews about their experiences.

Cultivating an effective bedside or webside manner and stellar client service skills can go a long way toward building a collection of great reviews. And it never hurts to ask for reviews whenever you talk to or work with clients. The more people who attest to your fantastic care, the more traffic your profile links will generate.

Get Backlinks

Backlinks from other businesses are yet another way to boost your Google Maps ranking and your reputation. When other businesses such as medical equipment manufacturers, local pharmacies, and physicians mention you in their online content, traffic is directed back to your website and your practice.

Backlinks also show prospective clients that you are a trusted practitioner who works alongside other trusted professionals. You likely already have well-established relationships with other related businesses. Partner with them to share content so that everyone benefits.

Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help

It’s not always easy to keep up with the changing web landscape and maintain an effective medical practice marketing strategy. To get the most from using Google Maps for your local clinic visibility, contact a professional web developer. Working with professional online marketers can get you quicker results and free you up to focus on what you do best — providing quality patient care!