Picture this: A potential customer is looking for a service you offer. They grab their phone, type a quick search into Google, and scan the top results. If your business shows up with complete details, great reviews, and engaging photos, you’re already ahead of the competition. But if your listing is incomplete, outdated, or worse—missing entirely—you’re losing out on potential business.
Google My Business (GMB), now known as Google Business Profile (GBP), is one of the easiest (and free!) ways to boost your local visibility. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or business owner, optimizing your profile can help you attract more leads, build trust, and ultimately, grow your business.
Here’s how to make your listing work for you:
1. Claim and Verify Your Business
If you haven’t claimed your business on Google yet, this is step one. Go to Google Business Profile and follow the steps to claim your business. Google will typically send a verification code by mail, phone, or email to confirm you’re the rightful owner.
👉 Pro Tip: If your business has been around for a while but you haven’t set up your profile, check if a listing already exists. Sometimes, Google auto-generates profiles based on online data, and you just need to claim it.
2. Complete Every Section of Your Profile
A partially filled-out profile won’t cut it. Google favors complete listings in search results, so take the time to fill out every detail, including:
- Business Name (exactly as it appears in real life)
- Category & Services (choose the most relevant options)
- Address & Service Areas
- Phone Number & Website
- Business Hours (including holiday hours)
- Business Description (make it compelling but concise)
👉 Pro Tip: Google allows multiple categories—select as many as apply to ensure your business appears in relevant searches.
3. Upload High-Quality Photos & Videos
People love visuals. Businesses with high-quality images get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks than those without.
📸 Add these photos:
- A professional-looking cover photo that represents your brand
- A clear profile picture (usually your logo)
- Interior and exterior shots (if applicable)
- Photos of your team, products, or workspace
🎥 Bonus: Add a short video showcasing your services or customer testimonials.
4. Encourage & Respond to Reviews
Reviews are social proof, and they directly impact how Google ranks your business. More positive reviews = better visibility.
How to get more reviews:
✅ Ask satisfied customers to leave a review
✅ Make it easy by sending a direct Google review link
✅ Respond to every review—good or bad—with professionalism and gratitude
👉 Pro Tip: If you get a negative review, don’t panic. Respond thoughtfully, acknowledge the issue, and offer to resolve it. Potential customers will see how you handle feedback, which can build trust.
5. Use Google Posts to Share Updates
Think of Google Posts as mini social media updates for your business. These appear in your Business Profile and can highlight:
- Special promotions
- New services
- Upcoming events
- Blog posts or industry insights
📢 How to use them effectively:
- Keep posts short and engaging (100-300 words)
- Add an eye-catching image
- Include a clear call-to-action (e.g., “Book a Free Consultation,” “Sign Up Now”)
6. Enable Messaging & FAQ Features
Google allows customers to message businesses directly from their profile. If you’re comfortable managing inquiries, turn this feature on and set up auto-responses to common questions.
Additionally, you can add FAQs to your listing to answer common queries upfront, saving time for both you and your potential clients.
7. Track Performance with Google Insights
Your Google Business Profile provides insights that show:
📊 How customers find your listing
📊 What actions they take (calls, website visits, directions)
📊 Popular times people search for your business
Use this data to refine your profile and marketing strategies. If most people find you via search, focus on optimizing your keywords. If engagement drops on weekends, consider running special promotions to boost traffic.
8. Keep Information Up to Date
Nothing frustrates customers more than outdated information. If you change your business hours, location, or services, update your Google profile immediately.
👉 Pro Tip: Regular updates signal to Google that your business is active, which can improve your ranking.
Your Google Business Profile is a powerful yet often overlooked marketing tool. By keeping it updated, engaging, and packed with relevant information, you make it easier for potential clients to find and trust you.
Now it’s your turn: Which of these strategies are you already using? What’s one thing you can update today? Let me know in the comments! 🚀