If you’re a small business owner, you already know how important it is to stand out locally. With people increasingly searching for services “near me,” having a strong local presence is crucial to drawing in customers. One of the easiest and most effective ways to do this is by optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP). The good news? You can do it yourself! Here are some DIY tips to help boost your local presence using Google Business Profile.
Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile
Learn more about how to claim your Google Business Profile.
First things first—if you haven’t already, claim your business on Google. Just search for your business name, and if it appears without being claimed, you can go through the process of verifying ownership. Verifying your GBP is essential to gain control over your business information, making sure that it’s accurate, and keeping potential customers in the loop.
2. Keep Your Information Complete and Up-to-Date
- Business name
- Address
- Phone number
- Website
- Business hours
- Categories
Guide on optimizing your Google Business Profile.
Google loves accurate information, and so do your customers. Be sure to fill out every part of your Google Business Profile—your business name, address, phone number, website, business hours, and categories. Keeping this information up to date means your customers always know how to find you, what you do, and when you’re open. Make sure to also include specific services and business offerings to help Google rank your listing for relevant searches.
3. Use High-Quality Photos
Visual content matters—businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites. Add a variety of high-quality images to your profile:
- Storefront: Show where your customers will find you.
- Interior: Give a peek into your space.
- Products: Highlight your offerings.
- Team Members: Personalize the experience.
More tips on adding effective images to your profile.
Visual content matters—businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites. Add a variety of high-quality images to your profile. This includes photos of your storefront, interior, products, and team members. By adding these images, you give potential customers an inside look at what makes your business unique and help build trust.
4. Encourage Customer Reviews
Customer reviews play a major role in your Google Business Profile. Here are some ways to encourage reviews:
- Ask in person after a successful transaction.
- Send a follow-up email with a link to your profile.
- Respond to Reviews: Promptly responding to reviews, whether they are positive or negative, is crucial. It shows customers that you value their feedback and helps build trust. Google also rewards businesses that engage with their customers.
Learn how to get more reviews.
Customer reviews play a major role in your Google Business Profile. The more positive reviews you have, the more credible your business will appear to potential customers. Encourage your happy customers to leave reviews and respond promptly to those reviews—whether they are positive or negative. Google rewards businesses that interact with their customers, and it helps to show that you care about their feedback.
5. Optimize Your Business Description
Write a clear and engaging business description that tells people what makes your business unique. Use keywords that your potential customers are likely to use when searching for your services.
Key Elements to Include:
- What you offer
- Unique selling points
- Keywords for search optimization
See examples of effective business descriptions.
Write a clear and engaging business description that tells people what makes your business unique. Use keywords that your potential customers are likely to use when searching for your services. Keep it simple, informative, and friendly. This description not only helps Google understand what your business offers but also makes a lasting impression on potential customers.
6. Post Updates and Special Offers
Google Business Profiles let you add posts, which are a great way to share updates, promotions, and upcoming events. Consider posting:
- Special Offers: Discounts or sales.
- Upcoming Events: Highlight what’s happening soon.
- News: Keep customers informed.
Check out more on how to use Google Posts effectively.
Google Business Profiles let you add posts, which are a great way to share updates, promotions, and upcoming events. Think of these posts as mini social media updates. Posting regularly helps keep your profile fresh and lets customers know that you’re active and engaged with your business. If you’re running a sale, hosting an event, or just want to share some good news, make sure to put it on your Google Business Profile.
7. Leverage the Q&A Feature
The Q&A section on your Google Business Profile is a great opportunity to answer frequently asked questions before potential customers even ask them. Keep an eye on this feature and make sure to answer questions that appear. Even better—you can ask and answer your own questions to provide valuable information up front. This helps customers get quick answers and shows that you care about addressing their concerns.
8. Add Special Attributes and Services
- Attributes: Specify if your business is “women-owned” or “wheelchair accessible”.
- Services: Mention offerings like delivery, curbside pickup, or online appointments.
Learn about adding attributes to your Google Business Profile.
Google allows businesses to add specific attributes, such as “women-owned” or “wheelchair accessible.” Take advantage of these attributes to give your customers more information about what makes your business special. Also, if your business offers specific services like delivery, curbside pickup, or online appointments, be sure to add them to your profile.
9. Track Insights to See What’s Working
Google Business Profile provides insights that let you know how people are finding and interacting with your profile. Track:
- Views: How many people saw your profile.
- Calls: Number of people who called your business.
- Requests for Directions: How often people sought out your location.
Learn more about using Google Business Insights.
Google Business Profile provides insights that let you know how people are finding and interacting with your profile. This includes data like how many people viewed your profile, called your business, or requested directions. Use these insights to understand what’s working and adjust your strategy accordingly. If you notice that certain posts get more attention, make sure to create more of that type of content.
Final Thoughts
Boosting your local presence doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By optimizing your Google Business Profile with these simple DIY tips, you can make a big difference in how customers find and perceive your business. Keep your information accurate, add engaging content, and interact with your customers—you’ll be on your way to becoming the go-to local business in your area.
Start by implementing these tips today, and watch as your local presence grows stronger. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help you succeed!
