How Google Business Profiles Can Help You Increase Local Visibility

How Google Business Profile Can Help You Increase Local Visibility
Jessica Jordan

If you’ve ever searched for a coffee shop, plumber, or yoga studio nearby, chances are you’ve encountered a Google Business Profile (GBP) listing. Those handy little boxes with a business’s name, location, hours, and reviews? Yup, that’s what we’re talking about. Optimizing your Google Business Profile is an absolute must if you’re running a local business and want more customers to find you. In addition to being free, it’s among the best resources for increasing your local presence.

Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down step by step.

 

What is Google Business Profile?

Let’s start by defining a Google Business Profile. Simply put, it’s a free tool from Google that lets businesses manage their online presence on Google Search and Maps. When someone searches for your business (or something related to what you do), your GBP listing can appear in the search results, giving potential customers a snapshot of essential information about your business.

Consider it your digital business card, only much more potent.

 

Why You Need a Google Business Profile

Having a GBP isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential for:

  1. Getting Found: When people search for products or services you offer locally, a GBP helps your business appear prominently.
  2. Building Trust: Reviews, photos, and up-to-date information can make your business look credible and approachable.
  3. Driving Engagement: Consumers can use your GBP to obtain directions, phone, or visit your website.
  4. SEO Benefits: A well-optimized GBP can boost your local search ranking, making you more discoverable.

 

How to use your GBP to its fullest potential

 

Step 1: Make sure your Google Business Profile is accurate.

Registering your business on Google is the first step if you haven’t already done so. Here’s how:

  1. Go to Google Business Profile.
  2. Sign in with your Google account.
  3. Search for your business name.
  4. If it’s listed, click to claim it. You will need to make a new profile if not.
  5. Follow the verification steps. This often entails Google delivering a code-containing postcard to your business address.

 

Verification is crucial because it ensures you’re the rightful owner of the business. You will have complete control over your profile after it has been validated.

 

Step 2: Optimize Your Profile

A GBP isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal. To make it work for you, you’ll need to optimize it. Here’s how:

Fill Out All Information

Make sure your profile is 100% complete. Include:

  • Business name (exactly as it’s used in the real world).
  • Address (or, in the absence of a physical place, service area).
  • Phone number.
  • Website URL.
  • Hours of operation.
  • Business category.
  • Description: Use this space to highlight what makes your business special. Be clear and concise, but don’t be afraid to sprinkle in a little personality.

 

Add High-Quality Photos

Profiles with photos get more clicks, period. Add pictures of your storefront, products, team, or anything else that showcases your business. And don’t forget to update them regularly!

 

Use Keywords

Just like your website, your GBP can benefit from strategic keyword placement. Think about what your customers are searching for and weave those terms naturally into your business description and posts.

 

Step 3: Encourage and Respond to Reviews

Reviews can make or break your online reputation. Here’s how to handle them:

  • Ask for Reviews: Don’t be afraid to ask pleased clients to write reviews.  You can even send them a direct link to make it easier.
  • Respond to Reviews: Never ignore reviews, no matter how positive or negative. Thank customers for positive feedback, and handle complaints professionally. This shows that you care about customer experience.

Pro tip: The more reviews you have (especially positive ones), the higher your chances of ranking well in local searches.

 

Step 4: Post Regular Updates

Were you aware that you could publish changes straight to your GBP? Think of these as mini social media posts. Share things like:

  • New product launches.
  • Special offers or discounts.
  • Events or announcements.
  • Behind-the-scenes photos or videos.

 

Step 5: Monitor Insights

Google provides detailed analytics through GBP Insights. This data can help you understand:

  • How customers find your profile (search or maps).
  • What keywords they’re using?
  • How many individuals requested instructions over the phone, on your website, or in person?

 

Bonus Tips for Success

  1. Stay Active: Update your profile regularly to keep it fresh and accurate. Outdated information is a big turn-off for customers.
  2. Use Messaging: Enable messaging on your profile so customers can contact you directly. Just make sure you’re responsive!
  3. Leverage FAQs: Answer common questions directly on your profile to save some time for customers (and yourself).

 

Final Thoughts

By claiming, optimizing, and managing your profile, you’ll boost your visibility and unlock new opportunities.

Would you like some help to set up your Google Business Profile? Reach out to us today!

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