Why Every Local Business Needs a Google Business Profile Now More Than Ever
In our ever-evolving digital landscape, having a trusted online presence is crucial for businesses looking to compete and succeed in the marketplace. Local businesses in particular face the challenging task of capturing the attention of both new and returning customers. Does this sound like you? If so, a Google Business Profile could be the solution you have been looking for your business.
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is a free listing that displays important information about your local business, such as your business name, address, phone number, hours of operation, services offered, and other key details. This information is featured on Google Maps and in Google’s local search results, making it highly visible to potential customers who are searching for businesses in your area.
While a Google Business Profile might seem like an insignificant detail, or just another website or platform to put your information into, it can actually make or break your business.
How a Completed Google Business Profile Can Help Your Local Business
Incorrect or incomplete information on your Google Business Profile can mislead potential customers into thinking you’re closed, located somewhere else, or unable to offer the services they need. This often leads to frustration for both you and your potential customers, and a loss of business.
On the other hand, an accurate and complete profile can attract new customers by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions. In fact, according to Google, businesses that have complete profiles are twice as likely to be considered reputable by consumers. This means you have a higher chance of gaining new customers and keeping your current ones- a free and easy solution to the challenges faced by local businesses everywhere.
How to Create a Google Business Profile
Creating a Google Business Profile for your local business is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to get your business’ name out there.
To create a Google Business Profile, you first need to sign up for a Google account. Once you have a Google account, go to Google My Business and click on the “Manage now” button at the top right corner of the page. You can search for your business by name, address, or phone number.
If your business listing already exists, claim it by verifying your ownership. If it doesn’t exist, create a new listing by clicking on the “Add your business to Google” button and follow the prompts.
After you’ve claimed your business listing, it’s time to optimize your profile to make it stand out and get found! Add your business hours, contact information, website, and other relevant details, and add a compelling description of your business that highlights your unique value proposition.
Tips For a Successful Google Business Profile
In addition to the information they need, viewers are also looking for a positive experience when they visit your Google Business Profile. One way to make a positive impression is by adding photos and videos of your local business. This creates a more immersive experience for potential customers and can give them a better idea of what to expect when they visit your business in person.
If all the relevant details are properly filled out on your profile, and it’s verified by Google, it can then show up on Google Maps. Adding in the extras– like videos, photos, and getting reviews- is advantageous to inclusion in this area of Google search.
Another factor to consider is reviews. Reviews are important because they show potential customers that you’re a reputable business that delivers quality services. Positive reviews can also help improve your rankings in Google search, which can lead to even more visibility and sales.
One important thing to remember is that Google times your response time to reviews. It’s vital to respond to all reviews- even the bad ones. Responding to positive reviews shows potential and current customers that you are appreciative of your customers and attentive to their needs. While we all hope to never receive negative feedback, not every review will be a glowing one. Responding to negative reviews shows them that you care about every customer and are willing to make things right if someone had a less desirable experience.
Updating & Optimizing Your Google Business Profile
You may think: “I filled out my Google Business Profile for my local business, and I’m done.” Sorry! Not quite. Once you’ve created your profile, you need to keep it up to date by regularly adding new content, updating your business information, and responding to customer feedback.
Updating your profile includes adding holiday hours, photos, new services, responding to reviews, and more. It can also include posting to your profile. Special event coming up? Make a post! New product launching? Add a new product or service! Closing for a holiday? Update your holiday hours!
By optimizing your profile and updating it regularly, your local business can establish credibility, build trust, and grow over time.
Take Your Local Business to The Next Level with The Janice Christopher Marketing Agency
A complete, accurate, and up-to-date Google Business Profile is crucial for local businesses. It not only increases your online visibility, but also serves as a powerful marketing tool to attract more customers.
By utilizing the expertise of The Janice Christopher Marketing Agency, you can ensure that your profile is fully optimized and that all reviews are professionally responded to with their Google Business Profile Optimization and Review Response services, guaranteed to make your business stand out among the competition on Google. Our team of experienced professionals not only help you get more views, but also engage with your customers and respond to their reviews in a timely and professional manner. Contact The Janice Christopher Marketing Agency today.
Don’t leave your online reputation to chance. Choose The Janice Christopher Marketing Agency for your Google Business Profile Optimization needs today, and take your local business to the next level!
