How to Make Your Business Stand Out on Google

Whatever kind of business you run, your Google Business Profile (GBP) can be your best friend for attracting new clients. And the best part? It’s 100% free!

Part One

What is Google Business Profile and How It Works

Part Two

How to Claim and Set Up Your Profile

PART 1: What is Google Business Profile and How It Works

What is Google Business Profile (GBP)?

Google Business Profile is like a free digital storefront for your business. It ensures that when potential customers search for what you offer on Google or Google Maps, your business is visible and easy to find.

Why Your Business Needs GBP

When people search for businesses like yours, your Google Business Profile is often the first thing they see—and it’s more prominent than website listings, including those of your competitors. This makes GBP crucial for standing out in search results. Google designed GBP to provide users with quick answers, like:

  • What you offer
  • Operating hours, including holiday hours
  • Location and directions
  • Contact details (phone, email, website)
  • Customer reviews and ratings
  • Special offers, new products, or services
  • Photos of your products and premises
  • Updates on events, or promotions
  •  
Where People Will Find You

Your GBP can appear in several places:

  • As a prominent panel when someone searches your business name
  • On Google Maps when users search for your services nearby
  • Among the top three local business listings on Google
  • Throughout mobile search results.

 

Important Note
Many potential clients may get all the information they need directly from your GBP without visiting your website. If your profile lacks key details, they might:

  • Look for another business
  • Click a competitor’s profile
  • Abandon their search altogether.
 

Key Benefits of GBP for Your Business

  • Stand Out Locally
  • A complete profile increases your chances of appearing in local search results, right where your potential clients are looking.
  • Keep Your Community Updated Instantly share updates, special deals, or upcoming events directly through your profile.
  • Build Trust Through Reviews Positive reviews highlight what makes your business special and build credibility with new clients.

PART 2: How to Claim and Set Up Your Profile

Finding and Claiming Your Business

  1. Visit business.google.com
  2. Click “Manage now”
  3. Search for your business nam
  4. If it appears, claim it; if not, click “Add your business to Google”

 

Verification Process

To verify your business, Google may:

  • Send a postcard to your business address
  • Call or text your phone
  • Use email verification
  • Schedule a video call

Verification can take a few days.

 

Accessing Your Profile

Once verified, manage your profile through:

 

Optimizing Your GBP for Maximum Impact

Basic Information to Include

  • Business name
  • Category 
  • Location and service areas
  • Operating hours
  • Contact details (phone, email, website)
  • Business description
  • Visual Appeal: Photos and Videos
  • Add clear, high-quality photos of your facilities, products and services
  • Include seasonal updates 
  • Post short videos showcasing your business, such as a tour of your products or premises.  

 

Pro Tips for Photos:

  • Label your photos with descriptive names 
  • Avoid blurry or outdated images
  • Regularly update photos to reflect your current offerings

 

Interactive Features

  • Post updates about your business, events, or offers
  • Respond to reviews (both positive and negative)
  • Answer common questions from potential clients

 

Maintaining and Improving Your GBP

Weekly Tasks

  • Post new updates
  • Respond to reviews and questions
  • Ensure all information is accurate

 

Monthly Tasks

  • Check insights (analytics) to see how people find your profile
  • Update seasonal information
  • Refresh photos
  • Handling Reviews
  • Thank clients for positive review
  • Respond calmly and professionally to negative feedback
  • Use feedback to improve your services
  • Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews

 

Using Keywords

Incorporate words people commonly search for. This boosts your visibility in search results.

 

Benefits of Optimized Google Business Profiles

According to studies, businesses with complete and optimized GBPs are:

  • 2.7 times more likely to be considered reputable
  • Twice as likely to attract location-based visits
  • 70% more likely to attract customers through profile searches

 

Many small businesses have reported significant increases in customer inquiries and foot traffic after setting up and optimizing their profiles.

 

Final Tips for Success

  • Keep your business information up to date
  • Regularly post updates and photos
  • Engage with client reviews and feedback
  • Use all available features to showcase your business
  • Monitor your insights to understand what’s working

 

Remember: Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression potential clients will have of your business. Take the time to set it up properly, keep it updated, and watch your business thrive!