Imagine you’re walking around your neighborhood, looking for a good pizza place. You see two restaurants. One has a big, bright sign, lots of people inside, and a menu posted in the window. The other has a faded sign, the windows are dark, and you’re not even sure if it’s open. Which one are you more likely to try?
The restaurant with the bright sign and happy customers, right? That’s kind of what Google Business Profile (GBP) optimization is like, but online!
Hi, I’m Linda Donnelly, and I’ve been helping small businesses with their marketing for over 10 years. One of the most important things you can do is make sure your business shines online. And a big part of that is your Google Business Profile.
What is a Google Business Profile?
Okay, so what is a Google Business Profile anyway? It used to be called Google My Business, but it’s basically your business’s online listing on Google. Think of it like a digital business card that shows up when people search for your business or for things you offer in your area.
It’s got all the important stuff, like:
- Your business name
- Your address and phone number
- Your website
- Your hours
- Pictures of your business
- Reviews from customers
When people search for something like “best bakery near me” or “plumber in [your town],” Google uses your GBP to help them find what they’re looking for.
Why Google Business Profile Optimization is a Big Deal
You might be thinking, “Why do I need to optimize this thing? Isn’t it enough to just have it?” Well, here’s the deal:
- People Use Google to Find Local Businesses:
- Did you know that 70% of people use Google Business Profiles to find local businesses? (Source: LocaliQ) That’s a lot of people!
- If your GBP isn’t optimized, they might not even see you! It’s like having a store with no sign.
- It Helps You Show Up Higher in Search Results:
- Google wants to show people the best and most helpful businesses.
- If your GBP is optimized, Google is more likely to show it to people.
- This means more people will find you when they search for things you offer.
- It Makes You Look Trustworthy:
- A complete and accurate GBP makes your business look professional and reliable.
- It’s like having a clean and organized storefront – it makes people feel more comfortable.
- Did you know that businesses with complete GBPs get 7 times more clicks? (Source: Google) That means people are checking you out more!
- It Helps You Get More Customers:
- When people find your GBP, they can easily call you, visit your website, or get directions to your business.
- And guess what? Businesses that respond to reviews are seen as 1.7 times more trustworthy. (Source: ReviewTrackers)
- That means more people are likely to become your customers!
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Okay, so you want to make your GBP awesome. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fill Out Everything!
- Don’t leave any blank spaces on your profile.
- Make sure your business name, address, phone number, and website are all correct. This is called NAP consistency, and it’s super important!
- Add pictures and videos to show off your business. Profiles with photos get 35% more clicks! (Source: Google)
- Choose the Right Categories:
- Pick the categories that best describe your business.
- This helps Google understand what you do.
- Use Keywords:
- Keywords are words that people type into Google when they’re looking for something.
- Use these keywords in your GBP to help people find you.
- Get Reviews!
- Ask your happy customers to leave reviews on your GBP.
- Good reviews make your business look awesome!
- 79% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. (Source: BrightLocal)
- Use Google Posts:
- Google Posts are like mini-updates that show up on your GBP.
- Share news, offers, and events to keep your profile fresh.
- Answer Questions:
- People can ask questions on your GBP.
- Answer them quickly and helpfully!
Why Business Solutions Marketing Group Can Help
At Business Solutions Marketing Group, we’ve been helping small businesses with their marketing for over a decade. We know all the ins and outs of GBPs.
We can help you:
- Set Up Your GBP: We’ll make sure your profile is complete and looks great.
- Find the Best Keywords: We’ll help you figure out what words to use to get found.
- Get More Reviews: We’ll help you get those good reviews rolling in.
- Use Google Posts:** We’ll help you create awesome posts.
- And much more!
We specialize in video marketing, reputation management, review removal, and, of course, Google Business Listing optimization. We’re here to help you shine online!
Don’t Wait!
Your Google Business Profile is like your online welcome sign. Make sure it’s bright, shiny, and inviting!
If you have any questions or need a little help, just give us a call. We’re always here to help small businesses succeed!
Remember, a good GBP can make a huge difference for your business. Let’s make it awesome!
