Are you looking to attract more local customers to your business? If so, Google My Business (GMB) is one of the most valuable tools at your disposal. A well-optimized GMB profile ensures your business stands out when customers search for services or products nearby. Think of it as your digital storefront, making a solid first impression on potential customers—even before they walk through your door.
This guide is here to help you—with simple, actionable steps to get your GMB profile up and running, and tips to make it work harder for your business. By the end of this post, you’ll have the tools you need to drive traffic, connect with customers, and grow your business.
Before we jump into the “how-to,” let's explore why GMB is a game-changer for business owners. Over 46% of all Google searches are seeking local information, and 78% of location-based mobile searches result in an offline purchase. If your business isn’t showing up in local search results, you’re leaving money on the table.
With GMB, you can:
Now that you know the “why,” let’s take a look at how to set things up.
Getting started with GMB is easier than you think. Follow these steps:
1. Go to the Google My Business website
Visit Google My Business and click the "Manage Now" button.
2. Sign in with your Google account
Use the Google account associated with your business. If you don’t have one yet, you can create a new account.
3. Enter your business name
Be precise! If you’re “Joe’s Pasta House,” include the full business name rather than just “Joe’s.”
4. Select your business category
Choose the category that best describes what you do. This step is critical because it tells Google when to show your business in searches. For example, if you’re a coffee shop, select “Café” or “Coffee Shop.”
5. Add your business location
If you have a physical storefront or office, enter your precise address. If not, you can choose a service-area business option and specify the regions you serve.
6. Include your contact details
Provide your phone number and website URL. Double-check these for accuracy.
7. Verify your business
Google may ask you to verify your business, often by sending a postcard to your address with a unique PIN. Follow the instructions, and once verified, you’ll be listed!
Your GMB profile is more than just your business name and location. The more complete and accurate it is, the better your chances of ranking higher in local search results.
Here’s what you need to polish up:
Accurately list your opening and closing hours, including updates for holidays or special events.
Add a short, engaging description of your business (750 characters max). Highlight what makes your business unique and use keywords naturally.
Upload high-quality images of your storefront, interior, and products. Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites.
Select attributes that apply to your business, such as “Has outdoor seating” or “Kid-friendly.” These make it easier for customers to decide if you’re the right fit.
Online reviews are one of the top factors influencing a customer’s decision. Google reviews build trust and boost your rankings in search results.
Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews. You can make it easier by sharing your GMB review link.
Thank customers for positive responses, and address negative reviews politely and professionally. This shows potential customers that you care about feedback.
Keep your GMB profile fresh and relevant by posting regularly. Posts can include promotions, new products, or events.
What to post?
Regular posting not only engages your customers but also signals to Google that your business is active.
Google My Business provides detailed insights into how your profile is performing. Use this data to refine your strategy.
By analyzing these metrics, you can fine-tune your GMB profile to attract even more customers.
To get the most out of GMB, here’s what to avoid:
Setting up and optimizing your Google My Business profile is one of the smartest ways to bring more customers through your doors (or to your website). By following these steps, you’ll not only improve your visibility but also create a seamless, trustworthy experience for potential customers.
Need help getting the most out of your GMB listing? Get in Touch - we’re here for you! Together, we’ll create a strategy that puts your business in the spotlight, boosts your rankings, and grows your customer base.
