If you're a local business owner and haven't set up a Google Business Profile yet, you're missing out on one of the most powerful (and free!) marketing tools available. Formerly known as Google My Business, your Google Business Profile is essential for being found by customers searching for businesses like yours. Let's explore why setting up this profile should be your top priority.
What is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile is a free tool that allows you to manage how your business appears in Google Search and Google Maps. When potential customers search for businesses like yours, your profile can appear in the local "Map Pack" - those three business listings that show up with a map at the top of search results.
Your profile displays crucial information including your business name, address, phone number, hours, website, photos, customer reviews, and more - all in one easily accessible place.
1. Dramatically Improve Your Local Visibility
The primary benefit of a Google Business Profile is increased visibility in local search results. When someone searches for services in your area (e.g., "plumber near me" or "coffee shop in Brunswick"), Google prioritizes showing local businesses with complete, optimized profiles.
Without a profile, you're essentially invisible to a huge portion of potential customers who rely on Google to find local businesses. With a well-maintained profile, you can appear in search results, Google Maps, and even get featured in the prominent Map Pack.
2. Build Trust Through Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are incredibly influential in purchasing decisions. Your Google Business Profile allows customers to leave reviews about their experience with your business. Positive reviews build credibility and trust with potential customers.
Studies show that:
- 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business
- Businesses with positive reviews receive 73% more clicks
- 84% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
Your profile also gives you the opportunity to respond to reviews, showing that you value customer feedback and care about their experience.
3. Provide Essential Information at a Glance
Your Google Business Profile serves as a quick reference point for potential customers, providing all the information they need to contact you or visit your location:
- Your business address with one-click directions
- Phone number with click-to-call functionality on mobile
- Business hours, including holiday hours
- Website link
- Services or products you offer
- Photos of your business, products, or team
- Answers to frequently asked questions
This convenience reduces friction for customers and makes it easy for them to take the next step, whether that's calling, visiting, or browsing your website.
4. Gain Valuable Insights About Your Customers
Google Business Profile provides analytics that help you understand how customers are finding and interacting with your business. You can see:
- How many people viewed your profile
- What search queries led them to you
- How many people called your business from the listing
- How many requested directions
- How many clicked through to your website
- How your photos compare to competitors
These insights help you understand your customers better and refine your marketing strategy based on real data.
5. It's Completely Free
Perhaps the best part? Google Business Profile is entirely free to set up and maintain. While some businesses pay thousands of dollars for advertising and marketing, you can gain significant visibility and credibility without spending a cent.
The return on investment for the time spent setting up and maintaining your profile is enormous. For many local businesses, their Google Business Profile is their most valuable marketing asset.
6. Stay Competitive in Your Market
If your competitors have optimized Google Business Profiles and you don't, you're already at a disadvantage. When potential customers search for services in your area, they'll see your competitors' listings with photos, reviews, and detailed information - while you remain invisible.
Setting up and optimizing your profile levels the playing field and ensures you're not losing customers simply because you're harder to find online.
How to Get Started
Setting up your Google Business Profile is straightforward:
- Go to google.com/business and click "Manage now"
- Enter your business name and address
- Choose your business category
- Add your phone number and website
- Verify your business (usually via postcard sent to your address)
- Complete your profile with photos, hours, and descriptions
Once set up, keep your profile active by:
- Posting regular updates and offers
- Responding to customer reviews
- Adding new photos regularly
- Keeping your information current
- Answering customer questions
Need Help Optimizing Your Google Business Profile?
While setting up a basic profile is straightforward, optimizing it for maximum visibility requires expertise. At Seam Media, we help businesses create and optimize their Google Business Profiles to attract more local customers. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business stand out on Google.