When someone searches for your business online, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is often the first thing they see. Think of it as your digital storefront; one that, like traditional storefronts, needs to be maintained.
From the accuracy of your contact details to the quality of your customer reviews, every aspect of your GBP contributes to the overall image of your business — and to a customer’s decision to engage with you.
But what exactly does your GBP (formerly known as Google My Business) say about you, and how can you make sure it’s working in your favor?
Whether you’re a seasoned local business owner, or you’re just getting started, optimizing your Google Business Profile is now a key ingredient for business success.
Here’s why.
Credibility: First Impressions Matter
Your Google Business Profile is a great opportunity to ease buyers into their journey with you. It’s often the first encounter new customers have with your business, and as the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a positive first impression.
But which aspects of your GBP are most important for engaging new customers and building credibility?
- Accurate information: It might seem obvious, but accurate contact details are crucial. If your business name, primary business category, phone number, address (including your location on Google Maps!), or business hours are incorrect, potential customers might get frustrated and go elsewhere. So, be sure to keep this information up-to-date to show that you’re reliable and easy to reach.
- Visuals speak volumes: High-quality photos of your business, products, or services can make a BIG difference. A picture is worth a thousand words, and in this case, it can also be worth a thousand customers! So always make sure your visuals reflect the quality of your offerings and the personality of your brand.
- Customer reviews: Reviews are one of the most powerful elements of your GBP. Positive reviews can significantly boost your credibility, while negative ones can have the opposite effect. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and make sure to respond to all feedback — positive or negative. This shows that you value your customers’ opinions and are committed to improving their experience.
Local SEO: Getting Found Where It Matters
A well-optimized Google Business Profile is one of the best tools for improving your local SEO. When people in your area search for the services you offer, your GBP should play a crucial role in helping your business appear at the top of their local search results.
So, which areas of your GBP should you prioritize to boost your visibility?
- Keyword optimization: Incorporating relevant keywords into your GBP can significantly improve your online visibility. Think about what your customers might be searching for and make sure those terms are included in your business description, services information, and GBP Posts.
- Accurate location data: Your location is key to getting seen in local searches. Ensure that your address is correct and that you’ve marked your service area appropriately. This will help Google connect your business with local searches.
- Regular updates: Google LOVES fresh content, and so do potential customers! Regularly posting updates, special offers, or news on your GBP can boost your local SEO and help keep your audience engaged.
Tip: If you’re new to Search Engine Optimization (SEO), it might be best to enlist the help of professional SEO services to ensure your GBP is effectively optimized. Google Business Profile information is valuable digital real estate — so use it wisely!
Customer Engagement: Building Relationships
Your Google Business Profile is more than just a listing; it’s a great way to engage with your customers and keep track of brand sentiment. By actively managing your GBP, you can strengthen relationships and build a more loyal customer base — all while keeping your brand voice consistent across all touchpoints.
To maximize customer engagement through your Google Business Profile, we suggest:
- Responding to questions: Potential customers will often use the Q&A section to ask about your products or services. Be proactive in answering these questions to help the person who asked the question, and anyone else who might be wondering the same thing.
- Using Google Posts: Google Posts allow you to share updates, events, and offers directly on your GBP. This feature is underutilized, but it can be a great way to engage your audience and keep them informed about what’s happening in your business.
- Offering special promotions: Use your GBP to highlight any promotions or special offers you have. This not only attracts new customers, it also encourages existing ones to keep coming back — and what business doesn’t want that?!
Make Your Google Business Profile Work for You
Your Google Business Profile is a great — and largely underrated — way to drive conversions for your business. But to truly benefit from it, you need a well-optimized profile.
At Tate Design, we can help make sure your Google business listing stands out with accurate details and engaging, SEO-optimized content.
As a full-service marketing agency in Chester County, we also offer a range of other services including web development, branding, digital marketing, graphic design, and more — giving local businesses the boost they need, when they need it.
Ready to transform your Google Business Profile or explore one of our other services? Get in touch with us today!
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