Google Business Profile Optimisation

Google’s most powerful discovery tool

Ever wonder how you competitor gets to the top of the Map on Google? The secret is their ‘Google Business Profile’ listing. If you’ve never heard of Google My Business or Google Business Profiles, or you’re unsure how it can work for your business, then we wrote this page for you.

First up, to clarify the name, Google My Business (GMB) and Google Business Profile (GBP) is the same thing. Google has rebranded Google My Business (GMB) as Google Business Profile (GBP) in 2021. Even years later, you might still hear people refer to it as GMB, however we’ll be using the correct naming on this page.

Google Business Profiles are a free tool for local businesses that helps them stand out and share information to attract the right customers.

You can think of it as a social media profile, but for your business. In one place, you’ll have a visual representation of who you are and what you do. This includes a map with your location pinned on it, photos of your facility, reviews, contact information, and more.

Top benefits of Google Business Profiles

Having access to a free tool that helps you get discovered by your ideal prospect is pretty powerful. But Google Business Profiles have additional benefits, too.

Potential visitors see a map where they’ll be able to pinpoint your location and get directions.
You have another opportunity to appear in organic search results. Companies with fully optimised GBP listings often appear in the top three mapped Google Places.
Your most up-to-date information is displayed in one visual dashboard for ultimate customer convenience. This includes your hours, busy periods, contact information, reviews, and a business description.
You’re also able to showcase your products/services and add posts like updates, deals or events.
You’ll get analytics and customer insights so that you can learn about their behaviour. With this information, you can tailor communication tactics and marketing strategies.
You get another place to gather reviews and publicise what makes you special.

GBP is a very powerful tool, especially for local searches when users are looking for nearby businesses, check their photos and read their reviews before making a purchase decision.

Steps to optimise your Google Business Profile

Our team is here to help, and we’re happy to do all the heavy lifting. If you’re the DIY type, here’s what you can do to get started using this valuable (free) tool.

Get a Proposal

Get verified

Verified businesses are considered more reputable than non-verified companies. Verification is a simple process involving a postcard from Google that confirms your location and your operations.

Fill out your profile

Use every available field to provide information, and be as detailed as possible. Remember, your audience is likely to be people looking for your product or service. Give them enough context to make a decision.

Keep updating it

GBP is not a “set it and forget it” tool. By keeping your information updated with photos, hours, and reviews, you signal to potential customers that you’re an active business owner who cares about the customer experience.

Optimise your business description with keywords

Be thorough when you fill out the business description field. Not only does this help with SEO, but it will also give customers more information to make a decision.

Increase reviews

Having a significant number of reviews signals that you’re a reputable company. Reviews help customers decide if you’re a pleasant place to do business with. Also, make sure you respond to reviews (both positive and negative) in a timely and professional manner.