Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is often the first impression a customer gets of your business. For a huge share of local searches, it's also the last thing they see before they call. Here's how to get every point out of it.
Step 1: Claim and Verify
Search your business name on Google. If a profile exists, claim it. If not, create one at google.com/business. Verification is usually a postcard, phone, or video check. Until you're verified, you're invisible in Maps.
Step 2: Choose the Right Categories
Your primary category carries the most ranking weight. Be as specific as possible: "Landscaper" instead of "Contractor," "Coffee shop" instead of "Restaurant." Then add secondary categories for your other services.
Step 3: Complete Every Section
- Hours, including holiday hours
- Services or products with descriptions and prices
- A 750-character business description that naturally includes your city and main services
- Attributes (wheelchair accessible, free Wi-Fi, etc.)
- Your website URL, pointing to the most relevant page, not always the homepage
Step 4: Upload Great Photos, Regularly
Profiles with photos get far more engagement. Aim for at least 10 current photos: exterior, interior, team, products, and work in progress. Add new ones monthly. Google rewards profiles that stay active.
Step 5: Post Every Week
Google Posts appear directly on your profile. Weekly updates about promotions, events, or seasonal services keep your profile fresh and give searchers a reason to choose you now instead of later.
Step 6: Answer Questions and Reviews
Enable messaging if you can respond quickly. Pre-load your own Q&A with questions customers actually ask. And respond to every review, positive or negative, within a couple of days.
Step 7: Watch Your Insights
Check your performance tab monthly. Calls, direction requests, and website clicks tell you whether your profile is turning views into customers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a virtual office address, keyword-stuffing your business name, ignoring suggested edits, and letting photos go stale are the fastest ways to stall your rankings.
A fully optimized profile is the highest-return piece of your local marketing. If you'd like us to audit yours for free, get in touch and we'll walk through exactly what's holding you back.