If you’re not on Google, you might as well not exist. That’s the mantra adopted by many businesses today.
But, Google says only about 37 percent of businesses have claimed their local business listing so they actually show up when you search for them.
That’s a lot of missing information, according to the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce.
That’s why they’re becoming the latest Valley city to join Google’s “Let’s Put Our Cities on the Map” program, hoping to help its small businesses get listed online.
Google launched the program this spring in the hopes of working with cities, and business owners to help local businesses increase their presence online.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce representative Sarah Watts told ABC15 that four out of five people use search engines like Google to find any kind of local business, from a restaurant to a dry cleaners to a nail salon.
And, if they aren’t searchable on Google, it means a lot of missed business opportunities.
So, they’re trying to get the word out.
Through the program, businesses can create an online listing and verify their business for free on Google My Business.
If they’re already on Google, they can update and verify their business information.
Kathy Tilque, CEO and president of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, said the program helps businesses expand their reach and grow.
“This is an important effort for businesses of all sizes,” Tilque said in a press release. “By having key information available online, it levels the playing field and increases the competitive nature of our local market.”
Tempe, Scottsdale and Glendale also took part in Google’s program recently.
