What are Google Business Profiles?

Since launching in June of 2014, Google Business Profiles have become integral to local SEO. Originally named Google My Business, this free tool allows businesses and marketing agencies to manage their presence across Google Maps and Google Search. From the Google Business Profile dashboard, you can edit business info, upload photos, publish posts, and respond to Google reviews.

Claim your Google Business Profile

For detailed information on getting started with your Google Business Profile, Google's Help Center explains exactly how to get started.

The first thing to do after claiming your business for your Google Business Profile is to enter all of the relevant information for your business. This includes...

• Business name
• Address
• Phone numbers
• Website
• Hours of operation

Pro Tip: Google will check business listing information from other directories such as Yelp, Bing, and Apple maps to check for consistency? Our citation sync feature allows you to seamlessly sync your information across these directories, improving your Google rankings.

Upload Photos For Your Google Business Profile 

Another great feature available in Google Business Profiles is the ability to upload photos to your business listing. Start with great pictures of the exterior and interior of the location. This will help searchers find the business. Next, upload photos of products, services, and staff to stand out from competitors in the area.

Pro Tip: Use a photo scheduler to upload pictures regularly to a profile. dbaPlatform offers a host of content managing tools that allows for easy posting across multiple locations.

Making Updates on your Google Business Profile

One of the most valuable features in Google Business Profiles is the update feature. This feature allows businesses to communicate directly with their audiences through updates on operation or promotions. Attach a captivating image and some compelling text to a post and watch profile views and buying actions increase. Google has three update types available:

• Add Update- This post type is best used to keep customers updated on what’s happening with the business.
• Add Event- These posts give the option to set a start/end date and advertise special events such as fundraisers, demonstrations, classes, and more.
• Add Offer- Use offer posts to promote special offers and discounts. Be sure to include any coupon codes as well as terms and conditions.

Google Business Profile Reviews

The reviews section of your Google Business Profile is a fantastic way to gauge customer satisfaction and improve relationships. While getting 5-star reviews is important, review response is equally important. Acknowledge happy customers as well as engage with negative reviews to determine a solution.

Pro Tip: Google Business Profiles come with some in-built tools to help you manage your customer tools. You can enhance your responsiveness and easily stay up-to-date with all your reviews for a multi-location business with a review response tool.

Google Business Profile Performance

The performance section of Google Business Profiles displays how searchers are finding your profile on Google Search and Google Maps. This section also shows phone calls, driving directions, photo views, website visits, and several other metrics that will help determine the health of a business listing. This feature is a great place to find content ideas for future marketing campaigns.

Wrap-up

Google Business Profiles are essential to any local SEO campaign. The suite of features offered helps business owners and digital marketers bolster their online presence and drive customers in the door. Best of all, the entire platform is free. There is a straightforward takeaway here - Google Business Profiles are a must for any business hoping to be found online.

For help setting up your Google Business Profile and optimizing it to boost your local presence, contact our sales team today.