The Ins and Outs of Google Maps
Google Maps is an extensive web mapping service, offering everything from satellite imagery and panoramic street views to real-time traffic updates. At its core, it is a navigational system that gives you turn-by-turn directions. However, over the years, it has become so much more than that.
Over a billion people use Google Maps every month to find restaurants, malls, and other businesses in new and unfamiliar cities. Whether you’re driving, using public transit, or walking, you can get directions and find the best route to your destination.
How to Access Google Maps
Google Maps can be accessed from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. If you’re using a computer, you can simply access it from a browser.
On mobile gadgets, however, you can access it from the app. From there, you can get directions and travel times to your destinations.
Top Google Maps Features
If you’re traveling, you can plan out your itinerary by looking up routes before your actual trip. From the app, you can even set a departure and arrival time. In doing so, you can get the most accurate traffic patterns, transit schedules, and other variables. Just click the depart at or arrive by button, then enter the right date.
You can also track your frequently visited spots to make navigation quick and easy. Tap on the Saved tab, then select Favorite Places. Click on the add button to save your favorite businesses, parks, or parking lots.
For the adventurous, Google Maps’ Explore section contains a wide range of places and events worth looking into, like restaurants and bars. It can lead you to your next favorite destination.
Perhaps the best thing about Google Maps is that you can use it offline—that is, if you download certain maps beforehand. Even without Wi-Fi or data connection, you can get directions to your destinations. Traffic information, however, won’t be available.
The Advantages of Google Maps for Business
One of the most obvious benefits of listing your business on Google Maps
is visibility. It makes it easier for your target audience to find directions to your store.
Google Maps also adds a human element to your brand. By showing them photos, videos, and reviews of your business from actual paying customers, you can build trust and encourage them to drop by.
Depending on where you’re located, Street View can give potential consumers access to video feeds and stills as recent as 15 minutes ago. This will give them an idea of your store’s atmosphere and overall vibe.
Make sure to show them up-to-date information about your business as it encourages them to visit and make a purchase.
Get Verified on Google Maps
If you want to stand out from the competition and engage your prospective consumers, you should get your business verified on Google Maps.
iMapping can add relevant and accurate business information to Google Maps, as well as other navigation maps, such as Apple Maps, Waze, Here, and Bing in addition to the most popular voice search platforms (Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana, and Bixby) on your behalf. Visit imapping.com to find out more.