Google My Business (GMB) Why is it so Important?

How It Impacts Local Search

Local SEO makes or breaks customer engagement. When you search for “coffee shop near me,” Google relies on local listings like your Google Business Profile. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Local Pack Rankings: These are the top results that appear, often before organic listings.
• User Trust: People trust Google-verified information. More engagement leads to more trust.
• Mobile Accessibility: Over half of users access profiles via smartphones.

Example: If you’re a Vancouver-based bakery, Google Maps users will find your address, call button, and menu links if you’ve optimized your profile.

Key Features of Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile goes beyond a simple address listing. Check out these standout features:

1. Business Information

• Showcase your business name, hours, phone number, website link, and address.
• Include special hours for holidays to maintain accuracy.

2. Business Category

• Choose a primary category. Here is a list of all the Google Categories as of Nov 2024.
• Chose up to 9 secondary categories.

3. Reviews and Ratings

• Collect and respond to customer reviews, which impact trust and search rankings.
• Timely responses, even to negative feedback, help your business image.

4. Photos and Videos

• Add high-quality images and engaging videos of your storefront, products, and team. Videos need to be horizontal and under 30 seconds.
• Visual content attracts more engagement, with profiles having images getting 35% more clicks.

5. Products and Services

• List items or services with descriptions and prices, making it easier for customers to understand what you offer.
• Include specific details to cater to niche searches.

6. Questions & Answers (Q&A)

• Customers can ask questions, and either you or the public can answer.
• Use this to proactively address common inquiries and build authority.

7. Posts and Updates

• Publish posts to share news, promotions, or upcoming events.
• Posts remain for several months. It is a great idea to post once a week to keep your profile active.

8. Insights

• Analyze data like profile views, search terms used, and the most engaging photos.
• Insights help refine your marketing and engagement strategies.

9. Bookings and Reservations

• Enable booking options for services, linking directly with third-party scheduling tools.
• This feature works well for restaurants, salons, or appointment-based businesses.

Pro Tip from Premium Websites, Inc.: Add photos regularly; listings with images get 42% more requests for directions.

GBP Optimization Tips

Optimizing your profile is crucial for visibility. Here’s how to maximize your impact:

1. Use Accurate Keywords

• Incorporate primary and secondary keywords in your business description and updates. Ensure they sound natural to maintain readability.
• Example: A fitness studio might use “personal training” or “yoga classes near me.”

2. Upload High-Quality Photos

• Photos should be clear, well-lit, and showcase your products, location, or services in action.
• Regularly update images. New visuals engage repeat visitors and boost profile credibility.
• If you are a service based business without a storefront, add images of awards, reviews, screenshots of your work etc.

3. Update Business Hours Regularly

• Make sure your hours are accurate, including any seasonal or holiday adjustments.
• Set special hours in advance to maintain reliability in search results.

4. Write a Compelling Business Description

• Describe what sets your business apart in 750 characters. Highlight your unique selling points while staying concise.
• Ensure it emphasizes your key services or values but avoids promotional language.

5. Enable Customer Messaging

• Activate the messaging feature to allow direct communication. Be prompt in your replies to enhance user experience.
• Note: If you’re not able to respond quickly, consider disabling this feature to avoid poor user experience.

6. Request and Respond to Reviews

• Send follow-up messages or emails asking for reviews from satisfied customers.
• Respond to every review—thank people for positive feedback and professionally address negative comments.

7. Post Regular Updates

• Keep your profile dynamic with frequent posts about offers, new products, or events.
• Share behind-the-scenes content to humanize your brand.

8. List Your Products and Services

• Be thorough and detailed in describing your offerings. Use accurate names and clear descriptions.
• Adding prices and product images boosts engagement.

9. Add Attributes

• Attributes such as “Wi-Fi available” or “Wheelchair accessible” help customers know what to expect.
• Businesses like restaurants can indicate special features like outdoor seating.

10. Monitor Performance Using Insights

• Check your analytics to see which search terms bring in visitors and how they interact with your profile.
• Use this data to refine your content and engagement strategies.

Studies show businesses that update their profiles weekly receive up to 5x more views!

Summary

A well-maintained Google Business Profile boosts visibility, engagement, and customer trust. Premium Websites, Inc. encourages businesses to leverage every feature. From regular updates to strategic photo posts, a little effort goes a long way.

FAQs

1. How often should I update my Google Business Profile? Weekly updates are ideal. Add fresh photos and respond to new reviews. If that is not feasible, monthly updates are the bare minimum.

2. What types of photos perform best? Bright, clear, and high-resolution images attract more clicks. Show your products, awards, reviews, social media posts, or happy customers.

3. Can Premium Websites, Inc. manage my profile? Absolutely! We provide tailored services to keep your profile optimized.