Apple Maps has been making strides to compete with Google Maps, especially with the launch of Apple Business Connect in January 2023. This platform, akin to Google Business Profile, allows business owners to manage their listings on Apple Maps, making it easier for local customers to find their businesses. Here’s a guide on how to claim and optimize your Apple Business Connect listing.
Steps to Claim Your Apple Business Connect Listing
Claiming your business on Apple Business Connect involves a few straightforward steps:
- Log in with Your Apple ID
- Visit Apple Business Connect and log in using your Apple ID. If you don’t have one or prefer not to use your personal Apple ID, create a new one specifically for managing your business listing.
- Choose the Type of Business
- Select “Small Business” for businesses with fewer than 25 locations or “Enterprise” for those with 25 or more. SEO professionals or listing managers should choose “Third-Party Partner.”
- Search for Your Business
- Use the search bar to find your business. If it’s not listed, you can add a new location.
- Edit and Confirm Business Information
- Add and verify all relevant details, including address, contact info, website, business hours, and category. Ensure accuracy to enhance your listing’s visibility and usefulness.
- Verify Your Business
- Verify your listing by entering a code sent to your business phone number. Make sure this number matches the one on your website to avoid verification issues. If you have trouble with the verification, you may need to submit documentation like a utility bill, signed lease agreement, or business license that matches your business name and address.
Optimizing Your Listing
After your business is listed, it appears as a “Place Card” on Apple Maps, offering users an overview and directions. To make the most of this, consider the following optimization strategies:
Regularly update your business details to maintain accuracy and consistency across listings. Apple rewards accurate listings with better visibility.
Ensure your business is listed under the most relevant primary and secondary categories. This will help you reach the right audience.
Enhance your Place Card with a cover photo and gallery images. Visual content attracts more customers and distinguishes your business from competitors.
Highlight offers or promotions through Showcase posts. These can include a photo, header, body text, and a call to action, such as “Call Now” or “Schedule Service.” These posts can run for up to 30 days.
Include extra call-to-action buttons such as scheduling an appointment or calling for a consultation.
Updating Your Apple Maps Phone Number for Call Tracking
Apple requires the phone number on your listing to match the one on your website. This can be an issue for businesses using tracking numbers to monitor marketing campaigns.
Here’s how to update your Apple Maps phone number:
- Confirm Verification: Ensure your business is verified on Apple Business Connect. Complete the verification process if needed. By verifying the listing with a phone number already on your website, you should be able to make changes after the verification is completed.
- Manual Number Update: After verification, manually update the phone number in Apple Business Connect to your call tracking number.
- Communicate with Apple: If the issue continues, contact Apple support.
Maintaining an Optimized Presence
By following these steps and continuously updating your Apple Business Connect listing, you can enhance your local SEO efforts and attract more customers via Apple Maps. Apple’s recent improvements signal a serious commitment to competing in the local search arena, making it crucial for businesses to maintain an optimized presence on Apple Maps.
If you’re having trouble with the process, CI Web Group can help. Our team is experienced in managing and optimizing local listings to ensure your business gets the visibility it deserves. Contact us for expert assistance.
