Google Business/Places

[chris424uk]

Hi,

I'm looking to setup Google Business/Places for my website and I'm concerned about my current location for two reasons;

A) It's outside the area I'm looking to really target (5 miles outside Glasgow) so I will be over-looked on the map section.
B) I don't want to reveal my home address for any thieves kicking about, so would rather a different address.

So, taking these things into account, I've found a register office address in central Glasgow and I'm looking to purchase this address for correspondence, citations, etc. Only thing is... will I still benefit from having a central location on Google Business maps by doing this? And how important is this to rankings, getting clicks, etc.

I don't want to waste money on this, and I only need an address (don't need a shop/store, as I operate online and remotely).

Any advice is much appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[chris424uk]

Anyone got any experience in the field of Google Pages?

 

[makeusvisible]

The address you use is relevant, yes, so in short setting up a virtual office address within your target location is going to help. You will need to be able to use that as a postal address in order for Google to send your their verification postcard.

If your target location is in, or searching for services relating to your business in Central Glasgow, then yes...you are going to benefit from having a central Glasgow address. Make sure that you setup your Google My Business profile correctly, link it to your website and visa versa.

Also keep in mind that if you are currently appearing in search results for YOUR local area....the competition may be stiffer within Central Glasgow, and you may find that you no longer appear.

 

[fisicx]

Any you will be surprised at how many people now check addresses on Google. If it looks like a service address or some sort of virtual office people may not even visit your website.

And as to keeping your address private - the theives already know where you live.

 

[chris424uk]

Thanks for the solid advice guys. I won't be offering a walk-in business, it will all be done remotely. But with the option to hire meeting rooms for clients, etc.

Fisicx - that was a spine chilling statement to end your post! haha. Do explain? Should I invest in some Home Alone methods to deter those sticky bandits??

 

[chris424uk]

Also, on the maps on Google Pages, some businesses are big red boxes and visible from further out, than the others which are small red dots and only visible when zoomed further in.

So, how does one become a big red box rather than a wee red dot?

 

[fisicx]

Fisicx - that was a spine chilling statement to end your post! haha. Do explain?

Have you got your phone number on the site? When you registered the domain did you use your home address? Do you have a facebook account or pinterest or any other SM account? Have you got your business details on your car?

There are loads of ways for anyone with desires on your property to build up a profile. If they know you are a photographer then al lthe need to do is parkup fdown the road and wait for you to go out with a box of lenses and your box brownie and know the house is going to be empty for a good few hours.

So just put your address on the website and a decent lock on the back door.