Why is Google Business Profile important for your business?

What is Google Business Profile?

Google Business Profile is a free service that allows you to claim a business listing on Google. It is specifically designed for high-street shops (as opposed to e-commerce businesses) and other businesses that meet local customers face-to-face. This includes not only shops and restaurants, but also services such as dental practices, hairdressing salons, fitness centres and more.

Google Business Profile allows businesses to post and update their business information, such as opening hours, location, contact details and photos. This makes it easy for customers to find important information, such as when a business is open, where it is located and how to contact it. In addition, businesses can share photos of their products, services and atmosphere, giving potential customers a better idea of what to expect.

Another important aspect of Google Business Profile is the ability for customers to read and leave reviews. This provides businesses with valuable feedback and helps new customers make informed decisions based on the experiences of others. Positive reviews can significantly increase a company's trust and credibility.

Google Business Profile helps businesses be more visible in local search results and on Google Maps. For example, when someone searches for "ice cream parlour nearby", a well-maintained business profile ensures that your business appears high in search results. This is essential to attract and inform potential customers. Local visibility can make the difference between a customer visiting your business or choosing a competitor.

The stats.

In a survey by Google, it said 82% of people that they read online reviews of local businesses before making a decision. 93% of people use Google Maps to locate local businesses.

People are also 38% more likely to visit a business if the online information is up-to-date and accurate. With such statistics, it is clear that having your business online with up-to-date information is important.

That's where Google Business Profile comes in.

Local SEO

Google Trends Already taught us that "nearby" search terms with 200% have increased. With the rise of "voice search" this number is only going to increase. As a business, it is therefore important to also appear in these local search results. Moreover, positive reviews and customer interactions improve the credibility and attractiveness of the business, resulting in higher search rankings and more local traffic to the physical location.

Verification is important.

Okay, you've set up Google Business Profile. Don't forget to verify your listing!

This usually involves asking Google Business Profile to send a verification letter to your business address. Once you receive the letter, enter its verification code in your Google Business Profile account to complete the verification.

This verification process is hugely important because it increases the chances of your business listing appearing in Google search results. Also, changes you make to your listing become active only after they are verified.

Once the verification process is complete, you can respond to customer reviews and see "Insights" reports that show you how people are finding your info on Google.

Need help setting up your Google Business Profile? We are happy to help!