Want to give potential customers a virtual peek inside your business? Adding your business to Google Street View is a brilliant way to do just that. It’s like rolling out the welcome mat for the digital age! Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting it done.
Step 1: Ensure Your Business is on Google Maps
Before you can add a Street View tour, your business needs to be listed on Google Maps. If you haven’t done this yet, head over to Google My Business and claim your listing. It’s free and easy!
Step 2: Decide on DIY or Professional
You’ve got two options here:
- DIY: Use the Street View app to create your own tour.
- Professional: Hire a Google Trusted Photographer (like us at Trusted Photography) for a high-quality, professional result.
For most businesses, we recommend going pro. But if you’re feeling adventurous, the DIY route is there!
Step 3: Prepare Your Space
Whether you’re going DIY or pro, you’ll want your space looking its best. Tidy up, ensure good lighting, and remove any sensitive information from view.
Step 4: The Photo Shoot
If you’re going DIY:
- Download the Street View app on your smartphone.
- Open the app and tap the camera icon.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to capture 360-degree images of your space.
- Make sure you cover all areas you want included in the tour.
If you’re using a professional:
- They’ll handle this part for you, using high-end equipment for the best results.
- Be available to guide them through your space and highlight key areas.
Step 5: Processing the Images
DIY route:
- The Street View app will stitch your photos together automatically.
- Review the results in the app to ensure quality.
Professional route:
- Your photographer will handle this, creating a seamless, high-quality tour.
Step 6: Uploading to Google
DIY:
- In the Street View app, select the tour you’ve created.
- Tap ‘Publish’ and follow the prompts to add it to Google Maps.
Professional:
- Your Google Trusted Photographer will handle this for you, ensuring it’s correctly linked to your Google My Business listing.
Step 7: Review and Publish
Once uploaded, you’ll need to review and approve the tour before it goes live. Check that:
- All areas are correctly captured
- There’s no sensitive information visible
- The tour represents your business well
If all looks good, hit that publish button!
Step 8: Share and Promote
Once your tour is live, don’t keep it to yourself!
- Share it on your social media channels
- Embed it on your website
- Include a link in your email signature
The more people who see it, the more impact it will have!
FAQs
Q: How long does the whole process take? A: If you’re doing it yourself, you could have it done in a day. With a professional, it usually takes 1-2 weeks from shoot to going live.
Q: Can I remove or update my Street View tour later? A: Yes, you can remove or update your tour at any time through your Google My Business account.
Q: Is there a cost involved? A: The DIY option is free. Professional services vary in cost, but consider it an investment in your online presence.
Adding your business to Google Street View is a fantastic way to stand out online and give potential customers a taste of what you offer. Whether you choose the DIY route or go with a professional like Trusted Photography, you’re taking a big step towards boosting your digital presence.
Ready to get your business on Google Street View? If you want a hassle-free, professional result, give us a shout. At Trusted Photography, we’re experts at creating stunning virtual tours that showcase your business at its best. Let’s get your business seen!