When people are looking for a local business, their go-to spot is usually Google. 68% of online experiences begin with a search engine. That is why it is very important for businesses to have a well-optimized Google Business Profile. If your profile is search engine friendly, then it will attract more local customers and boost online visibility. 

Our SEO expert Austin team has created this guide to help business owners through the process of optimizing their Google Business Profile to maximize its potential. By implementing the following strategies, businesses can increase their chances of appearing in local search results and attracting more customers to their doorstep.

What is a Google Business Profile?

Before we get started, let's break down what this tool is all about. A Google Business Profile is a free tool that helps companies manage their presence on Google. It is created to help customers find your business and verify your business. People use it to find directions to your business, read reviews, find your social media handle and more.

How to optimize your Google Business Profile

Claiming and verifying your Google Business Profile 

The last thing you want is for your business to display inaccurate information. If you have not done so already, claim your Google Business Profile. It will give your business control over information about your business. Google has an official guide on the topic, with step-by-step instructions for how to claim and verify the profile.

Optimizing business categories and attributes

After claiming your Google Business Profile, you want to make sure everything is filled. Provide information about your business, like store hours, and include an engaging business description and categories. Making sure all your information is filled in will help Google recommend your profile to more suitable people. 

Verify your location

One of the benefits of having a Google Business Profile is that it can increase your online visibility and website traffic. To increase your visibility, make sure your location is verified. Google will ask you to add a valid address. Be sure to use a mailing address and not a PO box. If you do not add an address, it will limit the features on your business profile.

Showcasing high-quality visual content

You can increase your visibility and attract more customers by using high-quality visual content. Add high-quality photos of your establishment and products to catch people’s attention. It will make your business look legitimate rather than just using Google Street View pictures. Check out this guide to learn how to add images to your profile. 

Managing customer reviews and ratings

Reviews can have a lot of influence over whether a potential customer makes a purchase or not. Whether you are a retail store or restaurant, reviews play an important role. Encourage your customers to leave you a review after their visit or purchase. It will increase the credibility of your business. If you get negative reviews, be sure to also answer them and show how you will fix them. 

Boost your business’s visibility with an SEO expert Austin!

By optimizing their Google Business Profile, business owners can significantly increase their online visibility and attract more local customers. If you want to increase the visibility of your business even more, hire OMG Austin. Reach out to learn about our local SEO services that will help gain more local traffic to your physical business.