10 Things You Should Do To Improve Your Google Business Profile
As a small business owner, you’ve probably heard countless times before that your Google Business Profile is your company’s online storefront.
Well, that’s because it’s the truth!
Just as people walk by your physical store (if you have one) and decide whether or not to enter based on how your shop presents your business, online visitors will make their judgments based on their online research.
28% of all business now taking place online, so, it's essential that your business has a strong online presence if you want to tap into this market.
Creating a solid Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is an essential part of establishing your brand online so potential customers can easily discover your company, learn what you do, and how you can add value to their lives.
Whether you're a small local cafe serving the best coffee in town or a global corporation, an optimized Google Business Profile is the surest way to put your best foot forward online and connect with a wider audience.
So, how do you make your profile the best it can be to help you stand out from the crowd?
We’ve created a list of 10 easy things you can do to boost the visibility of your Google Business listing and attract better-quality customers in no time. Let’s dive right in!
How to take your Google Business Profile to the next level in 10 simple steps
1. Verify your profile
Once you’ve set up your profile, the first thing you’ve got to do is claim ownership of your business account on Google by verifying your profile and business name.
Doing this allows you to control what information is displayed and ensures your business looks legitimate and trustworthy in a crowded online space. Remember, no one wants to visit a shady-looking store – and the same goes for your Google Business Profile!
2. Fully Complete Your Profile
There’s nothing more frustrating for your audience than looking for more information about your business, only to find there's nothing there. It’s a sure way to lose out on potential business!
Make sure you accurately fill out all sections of your profile, complete with your business category, business description, address linked to Google Maps, website URL, business hours, and anything else your profile visitors need to know.
3. Include Personal, High-res Photos
One of the most effective ways to build online trust is to include personalized, engaging photos of your business and the friendly faces behind it.
Hire a professional photographer to take some high-quality business photos for your profile to give people a personal insight into your brand. Make sure to use an eye-catching cover photo that reflects your brand identity to set yours apart from other Google Business Profiles.
4. Encourage Customers to Share Reviews
Did you know that 95% of online users will read reviews before making a purchase?
Getting your happy customers to leave glowing reviews of your products or services is an incredibly powerful way to convert your profile visitors into paying customers too. When you receive reviews and feedback, be sure to respond as quickly as you can to demonstrate just how attentive and caring your business is.
5. Make Use Of Google Posts
Google Posts are a great way to drive engagement to your profile and help get more eyes on your business online.
Give your audience even more insight into what’s going on by sharing regular updates, events, offers, or anything else they’d love to see from you. These posts are a great way to attract a higher volume of better-quality leads by delivering value directly to potential customers.
6. Optimize Your Profile For Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Just as your website needs to be optimized for search engines, your Google Business Profile needs to be written with Google search (and your readers!) in mind.
By focusing on local search engine optimization, you can climb the ranks on search engine results pages and make it easier for people to find your business. First, find out what keywords your target audience uses to search for local businesses just like yours online. Then, incorporate the relevant ones into your profile to land higher on local search results.
7. Ensure All Information And Business Hours Are ACcurate
It’s absolutely vital that you keep all information on your Google Business Profile account up-to-date and relevant.
Part of keeping your profile visible is regular maintenance and monitoring of business information. If something changes on your end, don’t forget to update your account! Whether you’ve moved business address, changed your hours, or have altered your offerings, make sure to let your audience know right away to avoid any unnecessary confusion.
8. Dig Into Google Business Profile Insights
Knowledge really is power, especially when it comes to understanding how your audience interacts with your business online.
Using the analytics provided by Google Business Profile, you can gain deeper insight into your customer’s online behavior and adjust your profile in a way that meets their needs and drives more traffic to your website.
9. Enable Direct Messaging & Booking
Having a direct line of communication with existing and potential customers is incredibly valuable to local business owners.
To really make the most of your Google Business Profile, make sure your messaging and booking features are enabled on your profile to make it easy for people to get in touch with you. There’s nothing more important to a positive customer experience than a seamless booking process and excellent communication!
10. Stay Active And Engage With Your Audience
Optimizing your Google Business profile is an ongoing process that requires continued consideration and management.
If you want your audience to engage with you, you’ve got to stay engaged online, too! Regularly check in with what’s going on, respond to any feedback or messages, publish Google Posts, and don’t forget to keep your Google Business account information fresh and relevant.
Take the hassle out of Google Business Profile optimization for your small business with 406 Marketing
When used correctly, your Google Business Profile can be a powerful asset to your small business. Make sure you’re maximizing the full potential of your profile!
If you'd like to discuss an in-depth strategy for achieving good website usability, our digital marketing experts would love to help.
At 406 Marketing, we have years of experience helping small businesses expand their reach online through Google Business Profile optimization, website updates, monthly analytics, SEO, and more.
Reach out, and we'll get the conversation started!