TABLE OF CONTENTS
Verify Your Profile | Add Photos | Utilize Posts and Updates | Respond to Customers | Keep It Updated | Leverage New Features | Monitor Performance
Your business’s online presence is more important than ever. With nearly 90% of consumers reading online reviews before making a purchase, ensuring your business is visible and well-represented online is essential.
One of the most powerful tools available to businesses is Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). This free tool allows you to manage your business information, interact with customers, and enhance your local search presence.
Optimizing your Google Business Profile is a crucial step in your digital marketing strategy. Here’s how to make the most of it.
1. Verify Your Google Business Profile
Verifying your business profile is the first step to unlocking all of its features. If you haven't verified your profile yet, follow these steps:
- Sign into Google Business Profile using your Google account.
- Enter your business details, including name, address, and category.
- Submit your information and request verification via postcard, phone, or email.
- Once you receive your verification code, enter it in your profile to activate your listing.
After verification, your business will begin appearing in search results and Google Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find you.
2. Add High-Quality Photos
A well-optimized profile includes professional-looking photos. Businesses with photos receive 35% more click-throughs to their websites. Be sure to include:
- A high-resolution logo
- A compelling cover photo
- Interior and exterior images of your business
- Product and service photos
- Team and customer interaction shots
Videos can also boost engagement and showcase your business in action.
3. Utilize Google Posts and Updates
Google Posts allow you to share updates, promotions, events, and news directly on your business listing. These posts appear in search results and on Google Maps, helping you engage with potential customers.
Tips for using Google Posts effectively:
- Keep updates concise and relevant.
- Include high-quality images.
- Use a clear call to action (e.g., "Book Now," "Learn More").
- Post regularly to keep your content fresh.
4. Respond to Customer Reviews
Reviews play a huge role in consumer decisions and local search rankings. Engaging with reviews — both positive and negative — helps build trust and credibility.
When responding to reviews:
- Thank customers for positive feedback.
- Address negative reviews professionally and offer resolutions.
- Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.
Google values businesses that engage with their audience, so consistent responses can also improve your ranking.
5. Keep Your Business Information Updated
Accurate business details ensure potential customers can reach you easily. Regularly check and update:
- Business hours (including holiday hours)
- Phone number and email
- Address and service areas
- Website link
- Business description
If anything changes, update your profile immediately to maintain accuracy.
6. Leverage New Google Business Features
Google frequently updates its platform, adding new features that can benefit businesses. Stay ahead by:
- Enabling messaging to communicate with customers directly.
- Using FAQs to address common inquiries.
- Exploring booking and appointment integrations if relevant.
- Monitoring insights and analytics to track how customers interact with your listing.
7. Monitor Performance With Insights
Google provides analytics on how customers find and engage with your business profile. Pay attention to:
- Search queries used to find your business
- How many people visit your website from your profile
- Customer actions (calls, directions, messages)
- Popular times and locations
Use these insights to refine your strategy and enhance customer engagement.
Stay Ahead With an Optimized Google Business Profile
A well-maintained Google Business Profile can significantly impact your online visibility, local SEO (search engine optimization), and customer engagement. You can ensure your business stands out by staying updated and actively managing your profile.
Have other questions about enhancing your digital marketing efforts? We’re here to help at LAIRE! Contact us with any questions or to set up a free 20-minute assessment.
