How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Why Your Google Business Profile Matters More Than Ever
If you run a local business, your Google Business Profile (GBP) isn’t just another online listing—it’s a powerful tool that connects you with potential customers.
Here’s why an optimised profile is essential:
- Stronger Local Visibility – Nearly half of all Google searches are for local businesses.
- More Customer Engagement – Over 50% of profile interactions result in a website visit or direct action.
- Increased Credibility – A fully completed profile makes people 70% more likely to choose your business over competitors.
How Customers Engage with Google Business Profiles
Visibility & Customer Actions
- The average local business receives around 1,260 views per month from Google searches.
- 45% of businesses get direct appointment bookings via their GBP.
- 16% receive over 100 phone calls per month—just from their profile.
How People Search for Local Businesses
- 88% of mobile searches for a business lead to a call or in-person visit within 24 hours.
- 93% of consumers use Google Maps to find businesses near them.
How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile
- Keep Your Profile Fresh with Regular Updates
- Post updates, promotions, and events to keep customers engaged.
- Actively respond to customer reviews—this improves trust and ranking.
- Use call-to-action (CTA) buttons like “Call Now” or “Book an Appointment.”
- Ensure Your Business Details Are Accurate
- Use all 750 characters in your business description—ensure key details appear in the first 250 characters.
- Keep your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) consistent across all online platforms.
- Choose a primary category that best describes your business and add up to 9 secondary categories.
- Showcase What You Offer
- Add detailed product and service descriptions, along with high-quality images.
- Keep pricing information up to date to avoid customer confusion.
Biggest Mistakes That Hurt Your Google Business Profile
Inconsistent Business Details – Your name, address, phone number must be exactly the same across your website, social media, and listings.
Ignoring Reviews – Failing to respond to reviews, especially negative ones, can hurt your credibility.
Forgetting to Update Business Hours – Customers expect accurate hours, especially during holidays.
Not Using Keywords in Your Business Description – Google relies on this to understand what your business offers.
The Three Factors That Determine Your GBP Ranking
Google ranks local businesses based on:
Proximity – How close your business is to the searcher.
Relevance – How well your profile matches the search intent.
Prominence – How well-known, reviewed, and trusted your business is.
Why an Optimised Profile Makes a Huge Difference
Complete Profiles Get More Clicks – Businesses with full details receive 7x more clicks than incomplete profiles.
Local Searches Drive Sales – 59% of shoppers research businesses online before making a purchase.
Google Maps Visibility – Embedding Google Maps on your website improves your chances of ranking higher in search results.
How to Engage Customers & Boost Conversions
Reply to Reviews – Businesses that actively respond see a 33% improvement in their overall rating within six months.
Use High-Quality Photos & Videos – Professional visuals help build trust and attract more customers.
Run Special Promotions – Exclusive offers and discounts keep customers coming back.
Must-Have Content for Your Google Business Profile
Business Introduction Video – Tell your brand’s story and values in a short, engaging video.
Behind-the-Scenes Content – Showcase your team and work culture to connect with potential customers.
Customer Testimonials – Social proof is powerful—share real customer experiences through text or video.
Limited-Time Offers – Promote seasonal sales and exclusive deals to drive urgency and increase