Does your business need a Google Business Profile? Yes, absolutely it does. Standing out online is essential for success and one tool that can make a big difference for every small business, is having a Google Business Profile (GBP).
Whether you’re a small local shop or a growing enterprise, this free tool from Google can help you attract more customers and boost your online presence.
So what exactly is a Google Business Profile, and why does every business need a Google Business Profile to thrive?
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is a free online listing provided by Google that helps businesses manage how they appear on Google Search and Maps. It acts like a virtual storefront, giving potential customers essential information at a glance.
Key Features of a Google Business Profile
- Business Information: Display your business name, address, phone number (NAP), and website.
- Categories: Choose your primary category wisely, but make sure you select all categories that apply to your business.
- Operating Hours: Let customers know when you’re open.
- Customer Reviews: Showcase feedback and build trust.
- Photos and Videos: Highlight your products, services, and ambiance.
- Google Posts: Share updates, events, and promotions directly on your profile.
- Insights: Track how customers interact with your profile.
Having an optimised Google Business Profile ensures that your business is easy to find and looks professional when customers search online.
What Businesses can have a Google Business Profile
Any business that has in-person contact with customers within its stated hours can have a Google Business Profile
Whether you’re a service provider, retailer, or consultant, as long as you provide goods or services to customers either in person or within a service area, you qualify. Even online-based businesses with physical offices or service areas can use GBP to boost visibility.
Types of Businesses That Can Use Google Business Profiles
- Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Physical locations like cafes, shops, and salons can showcase their address, opening hours, and contact details. This ensures customers can easily find and visit them. - Service-Based Businesses
Businesses that operate in specific service areas—like plumbers, electricians, or delivery services—can display their coverage area instead of a storefront. - Online Businesses with Physical Offices
If your online business has a registered office where customers can visit, you can still use a Google Business Profile to enhance your local search presence. - Freelancers and Sole Traders
Freelancers like photographers, tutors, or independent consultants can create profiles to connect with local customers and build credibility. - Multi-Location Businesses
Chains and franchises can manage individual profiles for each location to cater to local audiences while maintaining a unified brand presence.
Exceptions: Businesses That Don’t Qualify for a GBP
While Google Business Profiles are versatile, certain businesses don’t qualify:
- Virtual-only businesses without a physical address or service area.
- Rental properties like holiday homes
- Artists, Brands or Organisations that have an online-only business
- A class or ongoing service which meets at a location you don’t own or have the authority to represent
- Any business whose address is listed as a PO Box or mailbox in a remote location
Verification of Your Business to get a Google Business Profile
These days Google is mostly requiring Video Verification of your Business to prove your entitlement to have a GBP.
The video will need to be one long clip, usually showing the street name and entering the business to show where clients can visit. Any signage should be included in the video, and for service-related business it’s a good idea to show in the video, your tools of trade which can be physical tools, or logging in and using industry-specific computer software you use for your work.
Why Do You Need a Google Business Profile?
1. Improves Local Visibility
When people search for businesses near them, Google uses location-based results to show relevant options.
With an optimised GBP, your business can appear in the Google Local Map Pack — the map section at the top of search results. This boosts your visibility and makes it easier for customers to find you.
2. Builds Trust with Customers
A well-maintained GBP shows potential customers that your business is legitimate and active. Features like reviews and photos help build credibility. People are more likely to choose a business with a complete profile and recent positive reviews.
3. Increases Website Traffic and Footfall
Your GBP can drive traffic to your website by providing a direct link. Additionally, features like directions on Google Maps make it easy for customers to visit your physical location.
There are some hacks you can use for Google Maps to help your ranking. Every place higher you rank in the Google Map Pack will increase the organic traffic for your website.
4. Encourages Customer Interaction
With tools like Google Posts, Q&A, and messaging, your GBP allows you to engage directly with customers. You can answer questions, share updates, and respond to reviews to build stronger relationships.
5. Provides Valuable Insights
Google Business Profile Insights offer data and insights about how customers find you, where they’re located, and what actions they take (like calling or visiting your website). These metrics can help you fine-tune your marketing strategies.
How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile
Setting up a GBP is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:
- Sign Up: Go to Google Business Profile and sign in with your Google account.
- Add Your Business Details: Enter your business name, address, phone number, and category.
- Verify Your Business: Google will send you verification details.
- Optimise Your Profile: Add photos, a business description, operating hours, and a link to your website.
- Stay Active: Regularly update your profile with posts, offers, and new photos.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Google Business Profile
Optimise for SEO
- Use keywords in your business description and posts (like “need a Google Business Profile”).
- Ensure your NAP details match across all online platforms.
- Add high-quality photos to attract more views.
Encourage Reviews
- Ask happy customers to leave reviews on your profile.
- Respond to all reviews to show you value feedback.
Post Regular Updates
- Share promotions, events, and news to keep your profile fresh.
- Use engaging visuals and clear calls to action.
Final Thoughts
A Google Business Profile is more than just a listing; it’s a powerful tool to connect with customers and grow your business.
From improving local visibility to building trust and driving traffic, a GBP offers countless benefits. If you’ve been wondering why you need a Google Business Profile, the answer is simple: it’s essential for standing out in today’s competitive market.
Once you’ve got a Google Business Profile, you can start thinking about SEO tools you can use with your Google Business Profile to help you stay ahead of the competition.
Ready to get started? If you need help setting up or optimising your profile, contact MRB Creative today and let us make your business shine online!
