First impressions are everything, and today, those impressions are usually online. When a person researches a business on Google, they are looking for key factors to help them with their decision on whether to use the product or service. Reviews, social media presence and updated business information have always been key players in a visitor's decision, but now more than ever, photography and 360° media on Google are factors that will help you stand out.
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Implementing a Google Street View tour on your Google page is one of the more effective things you can do in search results today. Here's why:
Recent Research shows that 81% of people conduct research online before making a purchase. Google tours simply help your business listing stand out. There is no doubt that Google search results are competitive. A business with a virtual tour on its Google listing appears complete and outshines competing results.
Engagement online is everything and virtual tours play a pretty significant role in a consumer’s decision. Not only will you increase click-through-rate to your website from Google, you’ll keep visitors interested longer. Per Google’s Impact of Search Listings for Local Businesses, companies with complete Google listings are 51% more likely to increase interest for viewers. Virtual tours lead to more curiosity about your company and increase the amount of time a person engages with your brand.
While virtual tours on Google have proven to increase traffic to websites, online viewers are even more likely to visit your business in person. Businesses with high-quality photos and a virtual tour are more likely to motivate people to visit the business. It gives visitors a preview of the experience they'll have before they physically walk through the door. It lets people who are interested in your business decide if what you offer meets their needs. Even more importantly, it helps people understand their surroundings and familiarize themselves with your space.
Think about what you look for when researching a business. Often, people are looking for companies that are well-established and transparent with their customers. A business with a virtual tour of their space is more likely to be viewed as a well-branded, established company.
You’ll be viewed as a business that embraces the newest technology and is also forward thinking. Virtual media is growing rapidly and more and more businesses are taking advantage of next-gen technology to cater to millennials. Not only will you show off your business' personality, but you'll stay on trend with the latest technology and ahead of your competition.