Google Business Profile, previously known as Google My Business (GMB), is a powerful tool that helps you get your local business noticed online. If you’re looking to attract more customers in your area, creating a Google Business Profile is essential. Studies show that 46% of all Google searches are looking for local information, and businesses with complete profiles are 2.7 times more likely to be seen as reputable by potential customers. By fully completing your profile, you increase your chances of appearing in searches for services you offer nearby.
Before you begin, make sure to read through Google’s guidelines and policies. Otherwise, getting your profile verified can turn into a real headache. A little preparation now will save you time and frustration later!
Why Google Business Profile Is Crucial for Your Business
Imagine you’re a local coffee shop owner, and someone nearby searches for “best coffee near me” on Google. If you have a complete Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business), your coffee shop will appear in their search results, giving you the chance to attract new customers who are already looking for your type of business.
A complete Google Business Profile directly impacts your local SEO, helping you rank higher in search results. The more accurate and detailed your profile, the better your chances of being found by nearby customers.
Your Google Business Profile also enhances customer engagement. You can respond to reviews, post updates, and answer questions, which helps build trust and credibility, ultimately driving more business.
Step 1: Set Up Your Google Business Profile
To get started, visit the Google Business Profile website and click “Manage Now.” Log in using your Google account, or create one if you don’t already have one.
- Business Name: Once you’re logged in, enter your business name to start creating your profile. This helps Google connect your business with local searches.
- Business Type: When choosing your business type, make sure to select all the options that apply to how you operate. If customers can buy products directly from your website, choose “Online Retail.” If you have a location where people can visit, like a store or office, pick “Local Store.” If your business involves going to your customers, like offering services at their location, select “Service Business.” Think about how you interact with your customers and pick the options that best match your business.
- Business Category: Choose a business category that best describes what your business does. This helps customers find you when they search for services in your industry. Pick a category that matches your main service or product to make it easier for people to discover your business.
- Service Areas: Add the areas where you serve customers to help them know if you’re available in their location. Include cities, neighborhoods, or regions where you provide deliveries or make home and office visits. This information will appear on your Business Profile, making it easier for customers to find you.
- Business Phone Number: Add a phone number that customers can call to reach you. It’s important to keep this number the same across all your online platforms.
- Website: Include the link to your website so people can find more info about your products and services. A mobile-friendly website is key since many people search on their phones.
- Business Location: Enter your business address to ensure consistency with your website and other platforms. If you don’t meet customers at your address, select “I deliver goods and services to my customers” and add your service areas. If you do meet clients at your location, include the address to help nearby customers find you in local searches.
Note: All physical location-specified businesses must have a real business address. P.O. Boxes will not be accepted for approval, as this does not align with Google’s guidelines and can lead to suspension of your Google Business Profile account.
If you have any questions, feel free to schedule a quick call or give us a call at 512-883-7071.
- List Your Services: Add the services you offer to your Google Business Profile to help customers understand what you provide. List each service clearly so people know exactly what they can expect when they choose your business. This will make it easier for potential customers to find what they need and choose your services.
- Business Hours: Make sure to list your exact working hours, including special hours for holidays or events. This helps customers know when you’re open.
Step 2: Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Local SEO
Now that you’ve set up your Google Business Profile, it’s time to make sure it’s ready for local SEO. Here’s how to do that:
- Business Description: Add relevant keywords to your business description on your Google Business Profile. Be sure to mention your services, location, and what makes your business unique. This will help your business show up in local searches.
- NAP Consistency: Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are the same everywhere online — from your website to social media to directories. Consistency helps Google trust your business information, boosting your local search rankings.
- Google Business Profile Reviews: Encourage your customers to leave Google Business Profile reviews. Positive reviews not only build your credibility but also help your business rank higher in local search results.
By optimizing your Google Business Profile for local SEO, you increase your chances of getting noticed by potential customers in your area.
Note: SEO optimization for your Google Business Profile requires extensive experience and knowledge. The right keyword research, strategy, and execution can truly benefit your local map search ranking and bring you more leads monthly (store visits, calls, traffic, appointments, etc.).
- Business Photos: Upload clear, high-quality pictures of your business, like your logo, staff, or the inside of your shop. Photos help make your profile more interesting and encourage people to check out your business.
Adding these details will help your Google My Business profile get noticed by more people and make it easier for potential customers to reach you. It’s a simple way to improve your local SEO and online visibility.
Step 3: Verify Your Business
To complete your Google Business Profile, you’ll need to verify your business. Google offers several verification methods, including:
- Video Verification: For certain businesses, Google may require video verification. In this process, you will be asked to record a short video showing your business location, signage, and relevant details to confirm your identity.
- Postcard Verification: Google will send a postcard with a verification code to your business address. Once you receive it, enter the code in your profile to verify your business.
- Phone Verification: If eligible, Google may offer phone verification. You’ll receive a call with a verification code, which you can enter directly into your profile.
- Email Verification: Some businesses may be eligible for email verification. Google will send a verification code to the email address associated with your Google My Business account. Simply enter the code to complete the verification.
Note: High-risk businesses like locksmiths, appliance repair, HVAC, etc., may be required to verify with video verification.
Choose the option that works best for your business and follow the provided instructions to complete the verification process.
Step 4: Use Google Business Profile Features to Enhance Your Profile
To make your Google Business Profile even more effective, you can take advantage of several features that can boost your visibility and engagement:
- Google Business Profile Posts: Use Google Business Profile posts to share updates, offers, events, or news about your business. Regular posts keep your profile fresh and engaging, which can attract more customers.
- Q&A Section: Make sure to monitor and respond to any questions customers ask in the Q&A section. Answering questions quickly helps build trust and shows that you’re active and responsive.
- Messaging: Turn on Google Business Profile messaging to allow potential customers to contact you directly through your profile. This feature makes it easier for people to reach you quickly, increasing the chances of a conversion.
- Google Business Profile Insights: Use Google Business Profile insights to track how well your profile is performing. Insights show you how customers are finding your profile, what actions they’re taking, and where they’re coming from. Use this data to refine your local SEO strategy and improve your results.
By utilizing these Google Business Profile features, you can create a more engaging profile that attracts more local customers and helps your business stand out.
Conclusion
Having a complete and updated Google Business Profile is super important if you want to improve your local SEO and show up in local search results. It helps more people find your business and trust you. A well-optimized profile makes it easier for customers to contact you and learn about your services.
If you’re ready to grow your business and reach more people, go ahead and create or improve your Google Business Profile today. It’s a big step toward online visibility and SEO success!
If you need help creating or optimizing your Google My Business profile, we’re here to assist! With the right Google My Business optimization, you can boost your local SEO and attract more customers.
If you’re having trouble with approval or need help with an appeal, we offer consultation services to guide you through the process. Call us at 512-883-7071 or book an appointment today, and let us help you improve your local SEO and grow your business!
