Why Optimize Your Google Business Profile?

Over 90% of online users use Google to search for businesses, and according to Google, these businesses are twice as likely to be considered by users if they have a complete Google Business Profile.

So, what is a Google Business Profile (GBP), and how can your business use it to your advantage?

In this article, we will break down what GBP is and why it is a must-have in successful marketing strategies.

What Is a Google Business Profile?

Formerly known as Google My Business, a Google Business Profile is a free listing on Google Maps and Search that allows business owners to manage their online presence. It allows you to provide information such as your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operations, services provided, and even reviews. Businesses can also upload photos and videos to showcase their brand.

GBPs are often the first thing online users see when they search for your business or businesses like yours. As such, optimizing it correctly has the potential to set you apart from and above your competitors. “How so?” you may ask. Well, let’s go into some of the benefits of having a Google Business Profile:

Increased Visibility

When customers search for something online, they are typically looking for something now. Maybe it’s a place to eat, a store to visit, or a service to hire. Regardless of what consumers are looking for, a Google Business Profile allows your business to appear in these search results and on Google Maps. It makes it easier for customers to find you.

Increased Trust and Credibility

Not only do verified business details, customer reviews, and photos help your business look more legitimate and trustworthy, but they also allow potential customers to compare your services to others like it. Customers don’t always choose the first business they see. Instead, they compare different businesses to find the one that fits their needs best. With an optimized GBP, you can set yours apart from the rest.

Direct Customer Engagement

GBP contains features like direct messaging, Q&A sections, booking links, and customer reviews. It allows customers to directly engage with your business without a lot of hassle or time commitment. This has the dual benefit of building a stronger connection between you and your customer base while also building stronger brand loyalty.

Analytical Insights

Like most things on Google, Google Business Profiles collect data on those who search for and click on your business. Such data includes how they found your business, what keywords they used, how they interacted with the profile, and what they clicked on. Business owners and marketers can use this information to fine tune their marketing techniques and attract even more customers.

How to Optimize a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is one tactic of a well-rounded marketing strategy, and like any marketing tactic, it is not something you can set up and just leave to sit. Yes, the profile will still exist, but you won’t be getting the most out of it that you could. For business owners, their best course of action is to optimize it, and below are a few steps to do just that.

1. Complete Every Section

A Google Business Profile is not difficult to set up, but it is important to make sure to fill out every section, including the business name, category, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and services offered. This is key to giving consumers all the information they need to make decisions.

2. Add High-Quality Media

GBP allows business owners to add photos and videos to their profile, which in turn, allows customers to see exactly what the business has to offer without any guessing or confusion. Include photos of your shop’s interior, product images, team photos, and even short videos explaining the services offered.

3. Respond to Reviews

Positive reviews build trust in your company, but negative reviews can also be a powerful tool. By responding to both positive and negative reviews, you show customers that you care about their experience and value their feedback.

4. Use Keywords

As many marketers and business owners know, providing keywords in website content and online advertising boosts search rankings, moving websites up on results pages. Google Business Profiles are no different. Remember to use keywords in your GBP but be careful not to overstuff it. The business description should still provide accurate and relevant information.

5. Use Google Posts

GBP has a feature called Google Posts. This allows businesses to share updates, promotions, events, and other content with online users. Don’t sit on this feature. It can be a useful tool for sharing information with customers.

6. Keep Information Updated

If anything changes with your business, such as its location or operating hours, be sure to update your profile. GBP is how online customers find your business, including during holidays and seasonal changes, so it is important to always give the most accurate information.

In Sum

A Google Business Profile is a company’s first chance to introduce themselves to potential customers, almost like a digital handshake. As a free marketing tool available to any business, it can be extremely powerful if utilized correctly. By using the optimization tips outlined above, you can not only increase your visibility to local users but also transform more of those users into loyal customers.

Get Found Online with Proven Digital Marketing in Livonia

If you want your business to “be seen” online, the digital marketing experts at Web Fox Marketing in Livonia can help. We provide effective digital marketing strategies including GBP optimization and local SEO services that will grow targeted web traffic and generate new opportunities. If it’s time for you to tower over your competitors, we’d love to have the opportunity to help. Call and speak with a digital marketing expert anytime, Free!

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