For most local businesses, the Google Business Profile gets more views than the website. It's what shows up in Google Maps and in the box beside search results. A complete, active profile is one of the cheapest ways to get more calls.
The basics
- Business name exactly as it appears on your sign. No extra keywords, which can get the profile suspended.
- Correct address or service area, phone number and website
- Accurate hours, including holiday hours
- The most specific primary category, plus a few relevant secondary categories
Make it convincing
- A clear description of what you do and the areas you serve
- Your services or products listed, with short descriptions
- Real photos: your storefront, your team, your work. Add new ones every month.
- Attributes filled in, such as accessibility, payment options and language
Keep it active
- A new Google post every week: an update, an offer, an event or a new blog
- A reply to every review, good and bad
- Answers to questions people ask on your profile
- Messages turned on only if someone will answer them quickly
Check it every month
- Look at the Performance tab: calls, direction requests and website clicks
- Check for edits Google or the public suggested to your info
- Make sure your name, address and phone match your website and other listings
Keeping a profile active every week is easy to let slide when you're running a business.