Google Tools 101: Using GMB, GA, GSC, Google Ads & GSuite

Google tools offer a number of advantages for dispensaries today. In an age where people research almost entirely online, these features make it possible for businesses of all kinds to stand out in a sea of competitors.

However, as you might have already guessed, the cannabis industry has enough quirks that Google tools aren’t always as useful as they might seem at first glance. We’ll look at the basics of the features and what you should know.

Google My Business (GMB)

Google My Business is a tool that helps you manage the details of your business profile. It confirms basic details, like your name and location, but it also allows for more advanced operations. From responding to visitor questions to listing product prices, GMB has been undeniably helpful for improving search rankings and inspiring customers to take action.

Other resources related to GMB

• Claiming Your GMB
• Optimizing Your GMB
• Using GMB Features on Your Site

Google Analytics

Google Analytics can help business owners keep track of anything from page views to trending search terms. This information makes it possible for owners to optimize their content and ensure that they’re addressing the most important issues for their customers. For instance, if edibles are more popular than vaping products in your area, then you can focus on edible-related search terms in everything from your blog to your home page.

Google Search Console

Google Search Console can provide even more insight into how your site is performing, giving you notifications and data about the kinds of bugs and hiccups that hinder customers trying to find you. This tool essentially shows you how Google treats your listing, so you can make changes that ultimately result in a better bottom line.

Google Ads

Google Ads is a way to put your business front and center if someone searches for common terms (e.g., dispensaries near me). However, while this has been an effective short-term strategy for many businesses, this isn’t an option for cannabis owners unless they first create an entirely new site without mentioning the word ‘weed’. It’s usually not cost-effective when applied to this industry.

G Suite

G Suite is a host of programs for business owners, including email, calendar, documents, spreadsheets, slides, forms, and videoconferencing. It’s hosted on the cloud, meaning you don’t have to worry about whether or not your work is saved or what will happen to your data if your main device is destroyed. It’s excellent for business owners who want a secure place to keep important information or need reliable and easy-to-use programs designed for commercial use.

The staff at CannaPlanners know how important these tools can be. The only catch is that these tools require regular upkeep and maintenance. Because search habits change on a regular basis, businesses have to be ready to adapt.