Understanding the various identifiers used by Google to help businesses stand out online is crucial. Two key identifiers that often come up are the Google My Business (GMB) Place ID and the Customer ID (CID). Although they may seem similar, they serve different purposes and can significantly impact how businesses manage their online presence.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between GMB Place ID and CID, how to find them, and their importance for businesses, especially for service area businesses.
Understanding GMB Place ID
The GMB Place ID is a unique identifier assigned to a specific location on Google Maps. This ID helps Google accurately identify a business location, making it easier for customers to find and interact with it.
When you create or claim a Google Business Profile, a Place ID is automatically generated. This ID is essential for various functions, such as:
Integrating Google Maps: Businesses can use their Place ID in Google Maps links, making it easier for customers to navigate to their locations.
Generating Google Review Links: With the Place ID, you can create direct links for customers to leave reviews, enhancing your Google Profile information.
Using Google Ads: Businesses can use their Place ID in Google Ads campaigns to target local customers effectively.
How to Find Your GMB Place ID
Finding your GMB Place ID is relatively simple:
Google Maps: Open Google Maps and search for your business name. Click on your business listing, and in the URL, you’ll see a string of numbers after “placeid=”. This is your Place ID.
Google Place ID Finder: Google also offers a Place ID Finder tool that allows you to search for your business and retrieve your Place ID easily.
By utilizing the GMB Place ID, businesses can ensure they are accurately represented online, helping to drive traffic and conversions.
Understanding Customer ID (CID)
The Customer ID (CID), on the other hand, is a unique identifier used primarily in Google Ads. It helps businesses track their advertising campaigns and performance metrics. Each Google Business Profile has a CID that links it to its respective advertising campaigns, allowing for detailed analysis and reporting.
Importance of CID in Google Ads
Having a unique CID allows businesses to:
Monitor Ad Performance: Advertisers can track how well their ads perform by associating them with their specific business profile through the CID.
Manage Multiple Locations: For businesses with several locations, the CID makes it easier to manage and analyze performance across different branches.
Target Ads Effectively: By linking the CID with the GMB Place ID, businesses can ensure their ads are displayed to the right audience in their targeted areas.
How to Retrieve Your CID for Google Ads
To find your CID:
Google Ads Account: Log into your Google Ads account. Click on “Business Profiles” in the navigation panel.
Locate Your Business: Find your business listed, and your CID will be displayed next to it.
Having access to your CID allows you to optimize your advertising efforts and track ROI effectively.
Practical Applications for Businesses
Understanding the difference between GMB Place ID and CID is essential for effective local marketing strategies. For example, if you’re an SEO agency in Baltimore like Elivated, knowing how to utilize these IDs can significantly enhance your clients’ visibility online.
Local Marketing Campaigns: Use GMB Place ID to create Google Review links that can be shared in email campaigns or social media posts, encouraging more customers to leave feedback.
Google Ads Management: Utilize the CID to analyze ad performance for your clients, ensuring their advertising budget is spent effectively.
Additionally, service area businesses can leverage their GMB Place ID to create specific landing pages that highlight their offerings in targeted areas, improving their local SEO efforts.