Why Every Small Business Needs a Google Business Profile (and How to Make the Most of Yours)
Why Every Small Business Needs a Google Business Profile (and How to Make the Most of Yours)
If you own a small business, you already know how important it is to be visible where your customers are searching. And let’s be honest, most of the time, that means Google. Whether someone is looking for “coffee near me,” “best plumber in town,” or “marketing company open now,” the businesses that show up at the top of Google Search and Maps usually have one thing in common: a well-optimized Google Business Profile.
If you’re not taking advantage of this free tool, you could be missing out on valuable traffic, leads, and sales. Let’s walk through why you should have a Google Business Profile, how to use it to your benefit, and the steps you need to take to make sure your profile is working hard for your business.
Why Should You Have a Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) is essentially your storefront online. It’s the information card that pops up when people search for your business or for services you offer. It shows your business name, location, hours, phone number, website, photos, reviews, and even updates. Here at LoBello Marketing, consider us your partner in helping fuel your growth and bring more opportunities your way.
Here’s why it matters:
Visibility in Search Results
A Google Business Profile boosts your chances of showing up in local search results. Instead of competing with every business in the country, your listing helps you show up in the local pack: those top three map results that grab all the attention.First Impressions Matter
Customers often decide whether to call or visit you based on what they see in your profile. If your listing is complete with updated photos, accurate information, and glowing reviews, you’re far more likely to win their trust.It’s Free Marketing
Unlike running paid ads, this tool is free. All it costs you is the time it takes to set it up and keep it updated.Insights Into Your Customers
Google provides data on how people find your business, what search terms they used, and what actions they took (called, visited, or clicked your website). That’s powerful info for shaping your marketing strategy.
How to Use Your Google Business Profile to Benefit Your Small Business
Simply claiming your profile isn’t enough. You need to use it strategically. Here’s how small businesses can make the most of it:
Show Up in Local Searches
When someone searches for services “near me,” Google uses location data to show nearby businesses. A complete and active profile makes it more likely that you’ll show up in those searches.Highlight What Makes You Unique
Photos, videos, and posts give you a chance to showcase your personality and style. A restaurant can upload photos of daily specials, a boutique can highlight new arrivals, and a service-based business can share behind-the-scenes looks at their team.Build Trust With Reviews
Most people check reviews before making a decision. A steady flow of positive reviews reassures potential customers that you’re reliable and worth their business.Engage With Customers in Real Time
Profiles allow people to message you, ask questions, or even book appointments directly. This makes it easier for customers to connect without having to dig through your website.
What You Should Do to Maximize Your Google Business Profile
Now, let’s break down the specific steps to make sure your profile is complete, polished, and ready to convert clicks into customers.
1. Fill in Every Detail
It may seem obvious, but a lot of businesses stop after entering just their name, address, and phone number. Take the time to fill out:
Business hours (including holiday hours)
Website link
Services or products offered
Business description (use keywords naturally, but make it friendly and easy to read)
Categories and subcategories
2. Add Photos and Videos
People are visual. Businesses with photos get more clicks and calls than those without them. Post high-quality images of your storefront, team, products, or completed projects. Short videos work, too. Give people a peek behind the curtain.
3. Post Updates Regularly
Think of your Google Business Profile like a mini social media page. Share news, promotions, events, or even helpful tips. Posts only last for a limited time, so updating them keeps your profile fresh.
4. Ask for Reviews
Don’t be shy about asking happy customers to leave you a review. The more recent and authentic reviews you have, the better. You can even create a direct review link to make it easier for them.
5. Reply to Reviews
Reviews aren’t just for customers, they’re also a chance for you to engage. Replying shows that you value feedback, whether it’s positive or constructive. A thoughtful response to a negative review can even win back a customer or impress someone reading it.
6. Use the Messaging Feature
Enable messaging so customers can send you a quick question directly from your profile. Just make sure you or someone on your team is ready to respond quickly.
7. Monitor Insights
Check your profile dashboard regularly. Google shares data on how many people called, clicked, or asked for directions. This gives you a sense of what’s working and where you might need to improve.
Your Google Business Profile isn’t just an online listing, it’s an opportunity to connect with new customers and highlight the best of your small business. By filling out every detail, adding photos and updates, collecting reviews, and staying engaged, you turn your profile into a powerful (and free) marketing tool.
If you’ve been putting off creating or updating your profile, now’s the time to do it. With just a little effort, you’ll increase your visibility, build trust with potential customers, and give your business the edge it needs in today’s digital world. As always, LoBello Marketing is here to help you succeed with all of your marketing strategies. Contact us today!
