The Top 5 Ways to Make Google Business Profile Work for Your Local Business in 2024
Gone are the days of thumbing through yellow pages to find local businesses. Today, when someone needs a service or product, they simply reach for their phone and search on Google. Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google Places) is now your most powerful tool for connecting with potential customers.
Think of your Google Business Profile as your business’s digital storefront – one that’s open 24/7, welcoming potential customers even when you’re sleeping. However, just like a physical storefront, it needs proper setup and regular maintenance to attract and engage customers.
Now, let’s explore five proven ways to make your Google Business Profile work harder for your business:
Does Your Profile Grab Attention?
Your digital storefront needs to capture attention in seconds, making every detail from your business hours to your service descriptions work as your 24/7 sales representative.
First impressions matter, especially online. When setting up your Google Business Profile, think about what your customers need to know most. Your business name, address, and phone number are just the beginning. Add your working hours, the services you offer, and even parking information if it’s relevant. The key is to answer customer questions before they even need to ask.
Remember that time you tried finding a restaurant’s opening hours and couldn’t? Don’t let your customers have that frustrating experience. Keep your information current and accurate – it’s the digital equivalent of having your lights on and your door open for business.
What Is The Story You Are Communicating?
Craft compelling descriptions that connect with your local audience while naturally incorporating keywords that help your business appear in relevant searches.
Your business description is more than just a list of services – it’s your chance to tell your story. Use language that resonates with your local community.
If you’re a café in Athens, don’t just say you serve coffee; craft your unique story.
Do tell potential customers about your locally-sourced beans and your barista’s award-winning latte art. The more specific and relevant your content, the more likely you are to attract the right customers!
An Image Is Worth A Thousands Words!
Visual content drives 42% more customer engagement, making your photos and virtual tours essential tools for converting browsers into buyers.
In today’s visual world, pictures truly are worth a thousand words. Regular photos of your business, your team, and your products or services help potential customers feel familiar with your business before they even visit.
Take them behind the scenes, show them your team in action, or highlight your latest products. Fresh, high-quality images keep your profile engaging and give customers confidence in choosing your business.
Word-of-Mouth is The Most Trusted Referral
Customer reviews are the new word-of-mouth, with 93% of consumers saying online reviews impact their purchasing decisions.
Customer reviews are like digital word-of-mouth, and they’re incredibly powerful. When a satisfied customer takes the time to write about their positive experience, it’s pure gold for your business. Don’t be shy about asking happy customers to share their experiences.
And when reviews come in – good or bad – respond promptly and professionally. Even a negative review handled well can showcase your commitment to customer satisfaction. Make sure to follow up on every review!
Has It Been A While Since Your Last Profile Update? They Know...
Regular updates and posts signal to both Google and potential customers that your business is thriving and actively serving the community.
Your Google Business Profile isn’t a “set it and forget it” tool. Think of it as a dynamic platform that needs regular updates. Share news about upcoming sales, post about special events, or highlight seasonal offerings.
This regular activity shows that your business is alive and thriving, making it more attractive to potential customers.
Making GBP Work for Your Business
Managing your Google Business Profile (GBP) can seem overwhelming. Start with the basics and build from there.
Set aside a little time each week to update your profile, respond to reviews, and add new photos. These small efforts add up to a strong online presence that attracts local customers.
Need help making the most of your Google Business Profile? At SEOlocal.gr, we specialize in helping local businesses shine online.
Our team of experts can help you optimize your profile and develop a strategy that brings more customers through your door.
Ready to boost your local business visibility?
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for my Google Business Profile to appear in local search results?
After verifying your business, your profile typically appears in search results within 24-48 hours. However, it may take 2-3 weeks to gain prominent visibility in local search rankings as Google evaluates your profile’s authenticity and relevance. Regular updates and complete information can help speed up this process.
Do I need to pay for a Google Business Profile?
No, creating and maintaining a Google Business Profile is completely free. While there are paid advertising options available through Google Ads, the basic profile with all its essential features – including photos, posts, reviews, and analytics – is free of charge. This makes it one of the most cost-effective marketing tools for local businesses.
What should I do if someone has already claimed my business on Google?
- Clicking “Request Access” on the Google Business Profile
- Following the verification steps provided by Google
- If unsuccessful, contacting Google Business Profile Support
- Providing documentation proving your ownership of the business Google will review your request and transfer ownership if your claim is valid.
How often should I update my Google Business Profile?
For optimal performance, you should:
- Check basic information (hours, contact details) monthly
- Add new photos at least twice a month
- Create posts weekly
- Respond to reviews within 24-48 hours
- Update seasonal information (holiday hours, special events) as needed
Regular updates signal to Google that your business is active and help maintain higher search rankings.
Why are my competitors ranking higher in local search results even though my business is closer to the search location?
Local search rankings depend on multiple factors beyond just location, including:
- Completeness of your business profile
- Number and quality of reviews
- Frequency of profile updates
- Consistency of information across the web
- User engagement with your profile
- Website SEO performance Improving these factors can help boost your local search visibility, even when competing with more distant businesses.
I'm very busy and I can't manage my GBP. How can SEOLocal help me?
We completely understand that running your business leaves little time for digital marketing. At SEOlocal, we offer comprehensive Google Business Profile management that includes:
Service We Offer:
- Local Google Business Profile optimization and maintenance
- Frequent content updates and posts (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Professional photo editing and uploading
- Review monitoring and response management within 24-48 hours
- Detailed frequent performance reports
- Competitor analysis and tracking
Contact us for a free consultation and let us handle your Google Business Profile while you focus on running your business.