Search engines are vital to the hotel business. In that equation, Google is kingđź‘‘
Along with an almost omnipotent search engine, Google offers powerful additional tools.
One of these is Google My Business, the cornerstone of effective marketing. A free tool that provides many SEO possibilities and is the first step to higher search rankings. The absence of a listing of your hotel or apartment is a big  marketing mistake  , because the search engine relies heavily on the information you enter this way.
Google My Business is often the most overlooked feature of  online reputation management , and the following are the main reasons why Google My Business should not be ignored:
Using Google Ads as part of the Google My Business tool will improve your search results and increase the interest of potential guests.
If a guest searches for your business, they will not only be exposed to your property’s Google profile, but also relevant information about recent events, achievements and points of interest. An active profile with regular posts leaves a good impression on your online reputation because it communicates that you are actively involved in building your brand and communicating with guests.
At a time when guests are not only looking for the best prices but also a safer stay, it is important to use multiple communication channels. You may already be present on various social networking platforms, but Google my Business listing is an added advantage.
Namely, an additional channel of communication can make a big difference in the amount of direct bookings.
The guests themselves often prefer an immediate response from the staff, and this will also influence their final decision. If you have  different channels  through which they can reach you, such as your Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and your hotel’s direct contact information at the front desk and email on your GMB listing, the communication is much more likely to result in a booking confirmation.
You may have the best price for your stay, but how do you plan to display it? How will guests know that your facility currently offers discounts?
This is where Google My Business comes into play.
By placing your facility on the Google My Business platform, your potential guests are one click away from relevant information and reservations.
Namely, during the location search, the GMB listing will be marked on Google Maps, and your guests will find out more information about what you offer with one click. At the same time, if you have a website connected to a booking engine, by clicking on that link you also enable an influx of direct bookings.
Completely free.
A huge number of people decide to book based on reviews.
Google My Business listing allows you to display guest reviews, which is another factor that attracts more attention from potential guests.
The reviews function is likely to be the first contact potential guests have with the opinions of other guests and your listing in general, so responding to reviews regularly will influence all future ones – both reviews and bookings. Responding to GMB reviews shows your concern for the guest experience. Responding to negative reviews, rather than trying to remove them, will have a positive effect on potential guests as they can see how you handle any issues that may arise.
Google reviews give potential guests an idea of ​​whether you are worth a visit, and previous guests have the opportunity to reconsider their opinion of your establishment and perhaps visit it again.
Google has made the world a smaller place.
With just a few clicks you can learn anything or plan a trip anywhere, and Google My Business will increase your chances of being found and chosen by a potential guest.
Article source: Rentl.io – Author: Nina Glavić