Whether they’re looking for an auto repair shop or a local plumber, the first thing most people do is turn to Google. The world’s biggest search engine then spits back the top results – including Google Business listings complete with addresses, FAQs, reviews, and more.
Local search revolves around Google Business listings – and if you run a small business, you need to create and optimize your own profile ASAP.
It’s estimated that at least 81% of consumers used Google to evaluate local businesses in 2024 – followed by Facebook at 45% and Yelp 44%. Additionally, Google holds the largest number of business reviews in comparison to any other review platform.
At FluxDx we help business to grow on GBP profile, and increase the conversions and interaction.
Your Google Business Profile (previously referred to as Google My Business listing), is a free profile with Google. This is where you can input all of your essential information for customers to view, from your business name to your phone number and hours of operation.
If you have a GBP but haven’t optimized it, or if you are just creating your profile, it’s important to check all of the boxes for a strong online presence. It’s not just about having a listing, but about creating a profile that increases visibility and customer attention.
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) will be visible on both Google Search and Google Maps, making it easier for customers to find and learn about your business. However, the effectiveness of your profile depends on the information you provide. Here’s what you need to include:
- Business Name
- Physical Address
- Phone Number
- Website URL
- Category
- Operating Hours
- Photos (of your location and/or services)
- Customer Reviews
Ensure that all this information is accurate and consistent with other online details about your business. Inconsistencies can confuse potential customers.
According to Google, businesses with complete profiles are 70% more likely to receive visits and 50% more likely to be considered for purchases. So, don’t overlook any details!
What Does It Mean to Have an Optimized GBP?
So you’ve dumped all of your business’s information into your GBP – is that it? The answer is probably not, and here’s why.
It’s not just about creating a GBP, but about optimizing it. An optimized Google Business Profile is completely filled out, but it also features careful strategies to…
Improve local rankings
Generate more conversions
Spark better customer engagement
Sounds pretty sweet, right? Let’s talk about some ways to get there, both on your own and with the help of a professional marketing agency.
How FluxDX Helps You To Setup and Optimized your Google Business Profile
The first step in optimizing a GBP is verifying your profile. In fact, Google will not display unverified businesses, so the rest of your work is pointless until you get verified.
To verify your Google Business Profile, you will need to…
Sign into your account.
Select your business.
Choose a verification method.
Enter your details.
Verify with your code.
There are four main ways you can verify your business with Google. The first is to have a postcard mailed directly to your home with a code. The second is to receive a code over the phone using the phone number on your GBP. The third is to request verification via your business’s GBP email address. And lastly, to perform video verification.
Google implemented video verification for GBP listings to reduce fraud and verify business legitimacy. The video must be under two minutes.
Optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP)
Complete Your Profile
Ensure that your profile is fully completed with accurate and up-to-date information. This includes your business name, physical address, phone number, website URL, category, and operating hours. Consistency across all platforms is essential to avoid confusing potential customers.
Add High-Quality Photos
Upload high-quality images of your business location, products, or services. Visuals significantly impact customer decisions, making it more likely for them to visit or purchase from you. Include a variety of photos, such as interior and exterior shots, team photos, and images of your offerings.
Encourage and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews are a powerful tool for building trust and credibility. Encourage your customers to leave reviews and respond to them promptly. Positive reviews can boost your ranking, while thoughtful responses to negative reviews show your commitment to customer satisfaction.
Use Google Posts
Regularly post updates, offers, events, or new products on your GBP. Google Posts appear directly on your profile and can drive engagement and conversions. Keep your posts fresh and relevant to maintain customer interest.
Choose the Right Category
Selecting the correct category for your business is vital for appearing in relevant search results. Be specific to ensure that Google understands your business and can match it with appropriate searches.
Monitor and Update Regularly
Regularly review and update your GBP to ensure all information remains accurate. Monitor your profile’s performance using Google’s insights to understand how customers interact with your business online.
Utilize Google Maps
Ensure your business location is accurately pinned on Google Maps. This helps customers find your physical location easily, increasing the likelihood of in-store visits.
By implementing these strategies, you can optimize your Google Business Profile to improve your online presence, attract more customers, and ultimately drive business growth.
Need Help to optimized GBP Profile?
At FluxDX, we’re here to support you. Our expertise covers local SEO strategies, content marketing, and more. Whether your Google Business Profile (GBP) is nonexistent or underdeveloped, we’ll optimize it to its fullest potential