Why every business needs a Google Business Profile 

In our last blog, we looked at the signs your website might need a refresh and why keeping it up to date is so important. Something that works hand in hand with your website, but is often overlooked, is your Google Business Profile. 

When speaking to clients about improving their online presence, it’s one of the first things we ask about. Surprisingly, many businesses either haven’t claimed their profile or set it up years ago and haven’t updated it since. 

While your website is where people go to find out more about your business, your Google Business Profile is often where they first discover it. Whether someone is searching for your business by name or looking for a service in their local area, it’s often your profile that appears before they even click through to your website. 

It’s often your first impression 

Before someone visits your website or picks up the phone, they’ll usually make a judgement based on what they see in Google search results. 

A complete, up-to-date Google Business Profile gives people the information they’re looking for straight away. Opening hours, contact details, location, reviews, photos and a link to your website are all displayed in one place, making it easier for potential customers to decide whether to get in touch. 

If your information is incomplete, out of date or missing altogether, there’s a good chance they’ll move on to a competitor that provides the answers they’re looking for. 

It helps more people find your business 

A Google Business Profile doesn’t just help people who already know your business. It’s also a valuable way of reaching people who are searching for the services or products you offer. 

Someone might be looking for a local accountant, café, solicitor or marketing agency without having a specific business in mind. A well-maintained Google Business Profile increases the chances of your business appearing in those local search results, helping new customers discover you at the exact moment they’re looking for what you offer. 

Alongside an SEO-optimised website, it’s another important way of improving your visibility online. 

It builds trust before people contact you 

People like to do their research before deciding which business to contact. 

Reviews, recent photos, and accurate business information all help build confidence. Details such as your location, opening hours and up-to-date contact information reassure potential customers that your business is genuine, established and easy to get in touch with. 

Your Google Business Profile is also where your Google reviews are displayed. Positive reviews help build credibility before someone even visits your website, while your profile gives customers a straightforward way to leave feedback after using your business. The more genuine, recent reviews you have, the more confidence they can give to someone deciding whether to choose you. 

A profile that’s regularly updated also shows your business is active and engaged. Recent photos, responses to reviews and current business information signal that your business is operating and paying attention to its customers, rather than appearing neglected or out of date. 

It supports your wider marketing 

Your Google Business Profile works alongside your website, social media and other marketing channels to create a consistent online presence. Whether someone finds your business through Google Search, Maps, your website or social media, they should be able to see the same key information and get a clear picture of your business. 

Keeping your profile up to date also strengthens your other marketing efforts. It reinforces your brand, makes it easier for customers to find accurate information wherever they look, and supports the journey from discovering your business to getting in touch. 

It’s free – and often overlooked! 

One of the biggest advantages of a Google Business Profile is that it’s completely free! 

Despite that, it’s one of the most overlooked marketing tools available to businesses. A few simple updates can make a huge difference to how your business appears online, how easily potential customers can find you and the confidence they have in your business before they even visit your website. 

If you haven’t checked your profile for a while, now’s a good time. Making sure your information is accurate, your photos are current and your profile reflects your business today can have a lasting impact on your visibility, credibility and ability to attract new customers. 

Need help with setting up your Google Business Profile, or wider marketing strategy? Contact our team today.