How To Manage a Google Business Profile

If you run a local business, showing up online isn’t just important—it’s essential. I mean, when was the last time you opened the Yellow Pages?

Exactly. Most people turn to Google when they need something, whether it’s finding a nearby coffee shop, a plumber, or a hair salon. And that’s where a Google Business Profile (GBP) comes in.

Having a well-managed Google Business Profile can help you show up when people search for businesses like yours. It can boost your visibility, attract more customers, and even increase sales.

But it’s not just about setting up your profile and forgetting it—it needs regular attention to work effectively. Let me walk you through how to set it up, keep it updated, and use it to grow your business.

What Is a Google Business Profile?

Think of your Google Business Profile as your business’s front door on the internet. It’s what people see when they search for your company or similar services on Google Search or Google Maps. The profile shows important details like:

• Your business name
• Address
• Phone number
• Website link
• Hours of operation
• Photos
• Reviews from customers

When you manage your profile well, it makes it easy for potential customers to find and trust you. And trust matters—a lot! According to Google, businesses with complete profiles are 2.7 times more likely to be considered reputable by customers.

Why You Should Care About Managing Your Google Business Profile

1. Increase Visibility on Google
   A well-maintained profile increases your chances of showing up in local search results and Google Maps. This can lead to more people discovering your business when they search for the services you offer.
2. Build Trust With Customers
   When customers see accurate information, high-quality photos, and good reviews, they’re more likely to choose your business over one with incomplete or outdated details.
3. Boost Sales
   According to Google, 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business within a day. If your profile is optimized and shows up in those searches, it could mean more foot traffic and, ultimately, more sales.
4. Engage With Customers
   Your Google Business Profile isn’t just about listing your information. It’s a way to interact with customers through reviews, Q&A, and even posts about updates or special offers.

How Do I Set Up My Google Business Profile?

If you haven’t set up your profile yet, it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Create or Claim Your Profile

Go to Google Business Profile and sign in with your Google account. If your business already exists on Google, you can claim it. If not, you’ll need to create a new profile.

2. Enter Accurate Information

Add all the essential details:

• Business name
• Address
• Phone number
• Category (e.g., “Italian Restaurant” or “Plumber”)
• Website

Make sure everything is correct and consistent with what you have on your website and social media.

3. Verify Your Business

Google wants to make sure your business is real, so they’ll ask you to verify it. Usually, this involves receiving a postcard in the mail with a code you’ll need to enter online.

How Do I Optimize My Google Business Profile?

Once your profile is set up, it’s time to make it work for you.

1. Keep Your Information Up-to-Date

People rely on the details they find on Google. If your hours change or you move locations, update your profile immediately.

2. Add High-Quality Photos

Profiles with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their website than those without. Add pictures of your storefront, products, services, and even your team.

3. Respond to Reviews

Reviews are a big deal. Responding to them—especially the negative ones—shows potential customers that you care. Be polite, thank customers for their feedback, and offer solutions if something goes wrong.

4. Use Posts to Share Updates

Google lets you add posts to your profile, kind of like social media. You can use these to promote sales, share news, or highlight new products.

5. Answer Questions in the Q&A Section

Customers can ask questions directly on your profile. Make sure you answer them promptly. If you see common questions, consider adding them to your profile as FAQs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though managing a Google Business Profile isn’t rocket science, there are a few common mistakes I see people make:

• Ignoring Reviews: Not responding to reviews (good or bad) can make your business seem unresponsive.
• Inconsistent Information: If your hours or contact details are different from what’s on your website, it can confuse customers and hurt your credibility.
• Not Adding Photos: A profile without photos looks incomplete and less trustworthy.

FAQs

1. Is Google Business Profile Free?

Yes! Creating and managing your Google Business Profile is completely free.

2. Can I Manage Multiple Locations?

Absolutely. If you have more than one location, you can manage them all under one account.

3. How Often Should I Update My Profile?

At a minimum, update your profile whenever something changes—like your hours, address, or phone number. But it’s a good idea to check in at least once a month to respond to reviews and post updates.

Conclusion

Managing your Google Business Profile might seem like a small task, but it can make a huge difference for your business. With a little effort, you can attract more customers, build trust, and grow your business—all for free.

So, what’s the next step you’ll take to improve your Google Business Profile?