At Premium Websites, Inc., we’ve always prided ourselves on being more than just a web design company. We consider ourselves digital growth strategists, helping businesses navigate the complexities of the online world. Recently, we had an eye-opening experience with a client who was hesitant about the power of a Google Business Profile (GBP). This is the story of how we helped them see the light—and ultimately, how their business thrived because of it.
It All Started With a Question: Why is a Google Business Profile So Important?
Our client, a local service-based business, came to us for a website redesign. They’d been struggling to attract new leads, and while their site was functional, it wasn’t generating the business they’d hoped for. After discussing their online presence, we asked, “Do you have a Google Business Profile?”
Their response? A blank stare. They didn’t think a Google Business Profile was necessary. After all, they had a website, right? We smiled and gently explained, “Your website is great, but it’s not always the first thing people see—especially on mobile devices.” We pulled up a quick search for their industry and showed them the Google Maps section that appears at the top of local search results, even before organic listings. We pointed out that the businesses listed there all had one thing in common: active and optimized Google Business Profiles.
At that moment, they realized they were missing out on an opportunity to be found on Google Maps and capture the attention of local customers. They turned to us and asked, “Okay, how do we get started?”
The Blueprint for Success: How We Optimized Their GBP
Once our client was on board, we laid out our step-by-step plan to supercharge their Google Business Profile. We wanted them to understand that this wasn’t just a one-time setup—it was a long-term investment in visibility, credibility, and customer engagement.
Step 1: Claiming and Completing the Profile
The first thing we did was claim their GBP. It sounds simple, but this step is crucial—claiming the profile is like unlocking a direct line to Google Maps, where mobile users are most likely to find local businesses. We verified their profile, ensuring all the basic details—business name, address, phone number, and website—were accurate. This step alone began positioning them for local search success. Verifying a GBP is the hardest step. They now require a video taken at your business location. They will give you the list of things that need to be in the video. The video is uploaded through their platform – it never gets published. It is just used to verify you are a legitimate business.
We then helped them choose the correct business type: Service Area Business. Although they didn’t have a brick-and-mortar storefront, we made sure customers searching within their service radius could easily find them.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Categories and Services
When it came to categories, we dove deep. This business wasn’t just a generic “contractor.” They specialize in home renovations, bathroom remodels, and high-end carpentry. We carefully selected a Primary Category that captured their main service and added multiple Secondary Categories to cover all their offerings. This precision ensured they appeared in the right searches, putting them in front of the perfect audience.
Here is a list of the current Google Business Profile categories. You must choose one they allow; you cannot add your own.
During this process, we discovered that their competitors were missing a few key secondary categories. By adding those to their profile, we gave them an unexpected leg up—our client now ranked higher in searches their competition didn’t even know existed!
Showing Their Best Side: What Photos and Updates Can Do
Our next move was to convince the client that their Google Business Profile wasn’t a static page—it needed regular updates and a visual strategy. They were skeptical at first. “Why would Google care about my photos?” they asked.
We pulled out a few case studies and showed them the numbers. Businesses that update their GBP with weekly photos see up to a 35% increase in clicks to their website. Not only that, Google loves active businesses. The more updates, photos, and videos we added, the more visible the profile would become.
We guided them in posting the right types of content:
- Photos of their completed projects to showcase their craftsmanship.
- Behind-the-scenes videos of their team working on a job.
- Testimonial graphics highlighting 5-star reviews.
- Awards and certificates that demonstrated their credibility.
Each image added vibrancy to their profile, making it a visual experience for potential customers. Before long, their GBP wasn’t just another listing—it was a gallery showcasing the heart and soul of their business.
Building Trust: Why Reviews Became the Turning Point
Even after we optimized their GBP, our client wasn’t convinced that reviews could make a big difference. “I get a few here and there, but does it really matter?” they asked. We knew it was time for some tough love.
We explained that 90% of consumers read reviews before making a decision. “Your business could be the best in town, but if no one’s saying that online, people won’t know,” we told them. They needed at least 10 reviews to stand out and start gaining credibility. More importantly, they needed to engage with every review—both the glowing and critical.
We developed a simple system for them to request reviews after every successful job. Within a few weeks, reviews started rolling in. They hit the 10-review mark, and something incredible happened—Google started ranking them higher.
One of the reviews they responded to (which had been negative) turned into a huge win! The customer was so impressed with how they handled the issue that they edited their review from 2 stars to 5. That’s when the lightbulb went off for our client—reviews weren’t just a formality; they were a lifeline.
Why Listing Services and Products Transformed Their Profile
Next, we tackled the Products and Services section. Our client didn’t think listing all of their services was necessary, believing that future customers could just call and ask. We showed them that wasn’t the case.
“Think of it this way,” we said, “If a potential customer is searching for a specific service, and you haven’t listed it, you’re invisible to them.” That got their attention. We helped them list every service they offered, down to the most niche details. We didn’t just stop at generic services; we described each one, highlighting their expertise and specializations.
The result? Their profile started appearing in highly specific searches, attracting exactly the kind of clients they wanted.
The Fake Review Trap: A Lesson in Integrity
As we continued optimizing their profile, the client asked us if they should “buy reviews” from third-party services. It’s a common question, and we get it—everyone wants quick results. But we made it clear: fake reviews are Google’s red flag.
We explained that using review services could lead to account suspension and even removal from Google Search. “The risk isn’t worth it,” we told them. “Your reputation is everything.” We encouraged them to stick to the honest, long-game approach: delivering great service, asking for feedback, and responding to reviews.
If you purchase reviews, Google is likely to remove them in the future. Then, you paid for something you do not have.
The Big Payoff: A Thriving Google Business Profile
Within just a few months of optimizing their Google Business Profile, the results were undeniable. Calls from Google Maps tripled, website traffic spiked, and their profile received more engagement than ever before. The client was overjoyed, but more importantly, they now fully understood the value of having a well-maintained Google Business Profile.
At Premium Websites, Inc., this is what we do—we don’t just build websites; we create digital strategies that fuel business growth. If you’re ready to take your Google Business Profile to the next level, reach out to us. You’ll be amazed at what it can do for your business.
Ultimately, the client wasn’t just convinced—they were thrilled. And now? They’re the ones telling others how important a Google Business Profile is.