We all know what a juggernaut giant Google is.
With over 93% of all search queries going through Google and 87% of consumers using Google to evaluate local businesses in 2022, it’s hard to ignore the power of Google when running your business.
Considering their giant mega status, Google does a lot to help out “the little man”. Small businesses are able to use free tools such as Google Search Console and Google Analytics to help understand their website performance and learn more about their users. But one of the easiest tools to implement is Google Business Profile.
I’ve put together my top 5 reasons why your small business should create a Google Business Profile so you can also enjoy your own slice of Google goodness.
1. It’s free to use
Running your own business can be expensive. So when a free tool like Google Business Profile is available, you’d be smart to grab that opportunity with both hands. Not all businesses have their own listing, so you’ll be one step ahead of them straight away. Sign up and claim an existing business or create a whole new profile to get your business seen by the ones who are looking for you.
2. It can give you a higher priority for local searches
By having a Google Business Profile, you’re literally putting your business on the map. Google uses a combination of factors to determine what search results to display, so ensuring your profile contains accurate and up-to-date information, including location and keywords about your products and/or services, you’ll be maximising your chances of appearing at the top of those local search results. Strong local business listings is a must for a strong local business.
3. It strengthens your SEO
Search Engine Optimisation, or SEO, is about optimising your online content to improve your visibility and reach in search engine results. When you create your Google Business Profile, you can include all sorts of details about your business as well as your specific products and/or services. The more details you add, the easier it is for Google to understand your business and include your details in more search results.
Focusing on local SEO will help your business show up in the searcher’s local SERPs, with 42% of millenials more likely to visit a business they find via a local search.
You can also create posts in your Google Business Profile. Advertise your latest promotion, update customers about a new product or share your next event. No matter what the topic is, it’s an easy way to include extra keywords and search phrases to strengthen your SEO and make it easier for your next customer to find you and your website.
4. You can get useful reviews and increase your customer engagement
Customer reviews are proving to be an important source of information when making buying decisions. Reviews on your website, whilst a good idea, are likely to be viewed with a certain amount of skepticism. You’re hardly likely to include the less-than-pleasant ones when promoting your business.
That’s why having reviews on an open platform such as Google Business Profile shows a higher level of transparency. People are able to leave honest reviews that can include criticisms and bad experiences. Rather than freaking out when someone posts something negative, it gives you an opportunity to address issues, learn what’s working and what isn’t within your operations and have open engagement with your customers.
Actively managing your profile by responding to reviews, even negative ones, shows that you care about your business and your customers, and can even improve your search results ranking.
5. It’s another way to boost your online presence
Having a strong online presence is important and is best managed using a variety of platforms. Don’t limit yourself to just your website. Using multiple channels increases your reach and can help your potential customers find you more easily. Google Business Profile allows you to provide all your business information from contact details to your latest sales promotion. You can include links to your website or even straight to specific products. By including photos and sharing other content, you can make your profile all about you.
Make Google Business Profile work for your small business
Don’t delay, verify your business today. Once you have a Google Business Profile, it’s up to you how you manage it. You can keep it as a simple business listing, but actively managing your account, with regular posts and responding to reviews will yield better results.
Don’t let this task linger on your to-do list; I’m here to help you get started right away. Whether you just need someone to set things up so you can take charge of the day-to-day management yourself or would prefer someone to handle it on your behalf, check out my Google Business Profile Management packages, tailored to your needs.
Remember, a well-managed Google Business Profile can be a game-changer for your business, attracting more customers and boosting your online presence. So, let’s make the most of this opportunity and watch your business thrive with the power of Google.
