Set up your Google Business Profile

Whether you own a serviced-based business like home repairs, sell products from a brick and mortar store front, or operate an e-commerce store, it’s important to have a Google Business Profile. Formerly known as Google My Business, when set up properly, this feature offers a range of valuable benefits.

Here’s how it can help:

1. Improved Online Visibility

Appear in local search results: A Google Business Profile ensures that your business shows up when potential customers search for related services or products near them. Whether they’re searching for "best coffee shop near me" or "plumber in [your city]," your profile can help you stand out.
Google Maps integration: Your business will be directly visible on Google Maps, which is particularly crucial for service-based businesses or brick-and-mortar stores. This makes it easier for customers to find your location and navigate to it.

2. Increased Credibility and Trust

Customer reviews: Google Business Profile allows customers to leave reviews, which can significantly build your reputation. Positive reviews give potential clients confidence in your product or service, and even responding to reviews shows you're engaged and value customer feedback.
Business information visibility: By keeping your profile up-to-date with accurate business hours, location, and contact info, you demonstrate professionalism and reliability.

3. Free Marketing Tool

Cost-effective advertising: A Google Business Profile is free to set up and maintain, making it an incredibly cost-effective way to promote your business. The more information you add (photos, services, etc.), the more likely you are to catch the attention of potential customers.
Post updates and promotions: You can post updates, special offers, events, and news directly on your Google Business Profile. This can drive traffic, improve engagement, and inform customers about your latest offerings or discounts.

4. Increased Engagement

Direct contact options: Customers can call, message, or even request a quote directly through your profile, which can improve conversion rates. The "Click to Call" feature is especially important for service-based businesses where immediate contact is often needed.
Q&A section: Customers can ask questions directly on your profile, and you or other users can respond. This provides another touchpoint for engagement and transparency.

5. Better Insights

Customer insights: Google provides valuable analytics about how customers are finding your business and interacting with your profile. You can see how many people called you, requested directions, visited your website, or interacted with posts. This data helps you understand your audience and optimize your marketing strategies.
Performance tracking: You can track where your customers are coming from (e.g., through search or Maps) and what actions they take once they find your profile, giving you a clearer picture of what's working and what needs improvement.

6. Enhanced Local SEO

Boost local search rankings: Having an optimized Google Business Profile plays a key role in local SEO, improving your chances of appearing in the “local pack” — the top three business listings that appear when users search for local services or products. This is crucial for attracting nearby customers and staying competitive.
Relevance and accuracy: Keeping your business details updated (address, phone number, hours) and optimizing with relevant keywords increases your chances of ranking higher in local searches.

7. Flexibility for Service-Based Businesses

Service area customization: For service-based businesses (e.g., cleaning services, plumbers, or landscapers), you can set a service area instead of a physical location, helping you target customers in specific neighborhoods or regions.
Appointment booking: If relevant, you can integrate scheduling and appointment booking directly through your Google Business Profile, which is especially useful for service-oriented industries like beauty, fitness, or consulting.

8. Showcase Products & Services

Product and service listings: For product-based businesses, you can showcase specific items you offer, including pricing, descriptions, and photos. This can entice customers and allow them to get a better sense of what you sell before visiting.
Service breakdown for service-based businesses: You can list the specific services you offer, including detailed descriptions and pricing where applicable. This helps potential customers understand your offerings right away.

“If you don’t have a complete strategy, start with a single step.”

Setting up and maintaining a Google Business Profile is essential for any business aiming to enhance their online presence. It boosts local visibility, builds trust through customer reviews, offers a free and effective marketing platform, and provides valuable insights into customer behavior. For service-based businesses, it enhances accessibility and allows you to target a specific service area. For product-based and e-commerce businesses, it helps showcase your products directly to customers in your area.

By leveraging this tool, you're increasing the likelihood of attracting and converting local customers, which is especially important in today’s competitive market.

Not sure how to get started?

I’ve outlined seven easy-to-follow steps to help you set up your Google Business Profile, along with a few tips for optimizing your GBP.

Just click the button below to download the free guide!

If you’re looking for help with creating a strategic content marketing plan, growing your audience, or developing your brand, let me know how I can help.

Happy Marketing!

~Amanda

Want to get seen on Google? Do this one thing.