A Google Business Profile is a free tool provided by Google that allows local businesses to create listings that are displayed in Google Search and Maps. This used to be called “Google My Business” and is often referred to as a GMB.
Think of it like a profile for your business online.
Because so many people use Google Search and Maps, it’s a great way to promote your business online.
The Google Business Profile contains all of the essential information about your business, such as:
And more! Your Google Business Profile also allows your customers to write reviews and share their experiences about using your products/services.
A Google Business Profile (GMB profile) is an essential part of local SEO.
If you run a local business, you should use the Google Business platform.
What Will I Learn?
Google Business Profile allows you to take charge of how your business appears online.
It enhances your business visibility in local search results, streamlining the process for potential customers to discover you effortlessly.
Key features of a Google Business Profile include:
Cool, right?
Google consistently updates Business Profile features, bridging the gap between customers and the local businesses they need.
Yes, having a Google Business Profile is highly beneficial for any business.
It enhances your local search visibility, allowing potential customers to find you easily. The best part is that it’s completely free.
But that’s not all…
People trust what they find in the organic search results.
They also like to see reviews and experiences from past customers before visiting a local business.
That means that a Google Business Profile builds credibility and trust with potential customers.
Think of it as a bridge between customers and your business.
It’s a great way to attract the right customers to your business and provide them with all the information they need before they visit.
Yes, a well-optimised Google Business Profile is good for SEO and will significantly improve your local SEO.
Here’s why:
Google My Businesses (GMB) are displayed in two locations:
When people search for a local product or service, Google’s algorithm determines which businesses they should display.
The more “optimised” your listing is, the higher you will appear.
This increases the chances of being found by local customers online.
The key is understanding how Google Business Profiles work and optimising the important elements.
Follow this process to optimise your Google Business Profile correctly:
Fill out every section of your Google Business Profile.
This includes:
Everything! This comprehensive approach ensures that your profile is complete.
The more information you provide to Google, the more trust you will build with the algorithm.
More trust = More visibility
Who doesn’t want that, right?
The extra benefit is that you will provide potential customers with all the necessary details they need at a glance.
Integrate relevant keywords naturally into your business description and services to improve your profile’s searchability.
Don’t go over the top here.
Avoid stuffing keywords into every possible place in your listing. Keyword stuffing is likely to negatively affect your profile.
Instead, be strategic.
The most important place to incorporate keywords is in your business description. Remember that your services/products can also act as keywords to help Google better understand what you do.
Ensure that the integration of keywords feels organic and fits naturally within your listing. Your customers should never notice that you added them.
Here’s the truth:
Most people want to know what they will experience before experiencing it.
I know that sounds strange, but it’s true.
That’s why you should upload professional photos and videos of your business to your Google Business profile.
Using high-quality images showcases what your business does and creates a positive impression on visitors.
They understand what to expect before business.
Think about it from your customer’s perspective…
What would they want to see before visiting your business? This will help capture the right photos and videos.
I can’t overstate this enough…
Collecting positive reviews is essential to optimise your Google Business Profile.
Here’s why:
Google only wants to show users trustworthy businesses.
Reviews and ratings from real customers are the primary way that Google determines which businesses are trustworthy and provide excellent services.
The more positive reviews you get, the more visibility your business will receive. It’s as simple as that.
It’s also worth noting that positive reviews act as social proof. Reviews are also one of the best ways to increase conversion rates.
Regularly sharing updates on your Google business profile can increase visibility.
It’s one of the lesser-known profile optimisation strategies that most businesses are too lazy to do.
That gives you an advantage.
Share relevant updates, offers, events and information on your Google Business Profile. By staying active and providing fresh content, you let people know that a real person is behind the profile.
That’s a great way to build trust.
Tip: Reuse posts and content already posted on your social media profiles.
This will allow you to maximise the value of your social media posts.
Remember:
You don’t need to post every day. 2-3 updates per week is enough.
There are two primary ways to engage with your customers:
Both are important.
Replying to reviews and answering questions shows customers you care.
Even if a review is negative, it gives you a chance to showcase who you are and tell your side of the story.
Always be polite and calm.
Other potential customers are watching. How you respond to reviews will affect whether they decide to visit your business (or not).
It’s essential that you reply to every single review and question.
Increase Your Search Traffic
In Just 28 Days…