Why You Need A Google Business Profile in 2023
A Google Business Profile is a free and easy-to-use tool that can help a business improve its online presence for free!
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of having a Google Business Profile, how to create and edit one, and some tips to make the most out of your profile.
Why Having A Google Business Profile Is Important
A Google Business Profile appears on Google Maps and in Google search results, making it easier for local customers to find information about your business. A Google Business Profile allows businesses to showcase their products and services, share important information such as hours of operation and contact details, and engage with their customers through reviews and Q&A.
Having a well-optimised profile can help improve your online visibility and drive more business to your store or website through a better appearance on relevant search results and on Google Maps.
This platform is not just for local stores, but can be utilised by any business.
Creating A Google Business Profile
Creating a Google Business Profile is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Here are the steps to create your profile:
- Go to https://www.google.com/intl/en_au/business/
- Sign in to your nominated Google account or create a new one.
- Enter your business name and address. Google will try and identify if your business already exists on their platform. This ensures any Google reviews and data linked to your brand name are not confused (this also prevents any duplicate issues and suspensions down the track).
- Choose a business category that best describes your business. Note that Google is American and therefore categories are limited to a select few Americanised terms.
- Add your business phone number and website URL.
- Verify your business by mail, phone, or email.
Once verified, you will be able to access your account through your Business Profile dashboard.
Editing Your Google Business Profile
Once you’ve created your profile, it’s important to keep all of your information up-to-date and accurate. Your operating hours, phone number and address are particularly important in ensuring customers reach you.
In 2022, Google shifted the dashboard to a new, front-end view. Here’s how to edit your profile:
- In the Business Profile dashboard, ensure you are on the correct business then click on the “Edit Profile” widget.
- Edit your business information, such as your hours of operation, website URL, and phone number. Fill out as much information as possible and make sure to add a full business description.
- Add a logo, cover photo and images through the “Add Photo” widget. You may also upload 360 images + videos.
- Add services and products to make your profile more engaging through the “Edit Services” and “Edit Products” widgets.
- As reviews come in, you may respond to customer reviews and questions to show that you value their feedback and care about their experience with your business through the “Read Reviews” and “Q&A” widgets.
There are additional experiences to add to your Google Business Profile including a link to your online booking tool, messaging, and more. Ensure to add these if possible. You can also view your monthly performance directly in the dashboard.
Tips For Optimising Your Google Business Profile
Here are some tips to make the most out of your Google Business Profile:
- Keep your profile up-to-date: Ensure that your business information is accurate and current, including your address, phone number, and hours of operation.
- Add photos and videos often: High-quality photos and videos can help customers get a better sense of your business and products, and make your profile more engaging. Staying active shows the ongoing experience that is favourable to customers as well as Google.
- Respond to all customer reviews: Engage with your customers by responding to their reviews, both positive and negative. This can help build trust and show that you value their feedback. Ensure to make each response personable and professional.
- Add the correct service descriptions and service areas: ensure relevant services and target locations are mentioned throughout your profile to help your profile appear in relevant search results.
- Offer promotions: Promote your business by offering promotions and special deals to customers who find you through Google. You can utilise the “Posts” section.
- Monitor insights: Monitor your profile insights to see how customers are finding and interacting with your profile. Use this data to make informed decisions about your profile and online presence.
Owning and optimising a Google Business Profile is essential for any business that wants to improve its online visibility and attract more customers. Creating and optimising your profile is a simple process that can have a big impact on your online presence. By keeping your profile up-to-date, adding engaging content, and engaging with your customers, you can maximise the potential of your Google Business Profile.
At 5 Twelve, we help manage your online presence, including your Google Business Profiles, through our SEO services. If you require any advice, get in touch and we’d be happy to help.
