If you are a small business owner you should already have a Google Business Profile. If you don’t?... why not?
So, what is a Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business) gives you the ability to manage how your business appears in local searches. Whether you provide a service to a specific location or you serve customers within a designated area, your Business Profile will give you and your company maximum visibility.
Chances are that you’ve seen and probably even used GBP before. Google your favourite takeaway restaurant and you will see their profile appear to the right of the search listings. Here you will be able to see their contact number, a link to their website, their review score and even their location on Google Maps.
Now search for a plumber, electrician or builder in your local area and on the search engine results page you will be greeted with a list of local businesses that are serving customers in your area. Again, you will be able to view their website, get directions to their business address and read customer reviews.
You may even notice that GBP listings are appearing at the top of the search engine results page…
What can I do with a Google Business Profile?
Engage with your customers
It’s no secret that showcasing reviews gives potential customers confidence in your service and products.
In fact, 91% of shoppers check online consumer reviews. GBP gives you the ability to collect, respond too and display your reviews online. Your customers can even post photos and engage with your own profile posts.
Keep your clients in the know
Within your Google Business Profile control panel, you will be able to add important customer information about your business – such as opening hours, the services you provide, products you sell, sales and promotions you are offering and even the opportunity to book appointments.
Appear on Google Maps
This is a biggie. Once you have set up a Google Business Profile your business will be ‘pinned’ to Google Maps! This means if someone searches for “[Insert business service here] near me” you will appear in their local search.
You can also set up your account to appear in local searches in multiple areas – this is great if you don’t have a physical company location (or want it public), or if you have multiple locations your business operates in.
Generate Leads
Let’s face it - the whole reason you have a website in the first place is to generate leads and convert them into sales. Your Google Business Profile gives your business unparalleled visibility online, and acts as an entry point for your visitors to enter your small business website.
And once you’re ready, within the control panel you will even have the opportunity to manage Google Ad campaigns to further market your business online.
Is a Google Business Profile right for my business?
Google Business Profiles are perfect for businesses that offer face-to-face services. This could include:
- Restaurants, hotels and pubs
- Therapists and counsellors
- Trades people
- Consultants
- Nurseries
- Salons and barbers
- Cleaners
- Estate agents
- Shop keepers
If you sell products online and don’t have a physical location, then you will find that Google Merchant Centre is a better option.
How easy is it to create a Google Business Profile?
Creating a Google Business Profile listing for your small business is fairly simple, you just need to follow the step-by-step instructions.
You will need to verify your account and your business address – this can be done by requesting a Google postcode with a code sent through the post, or you can use your mobile phone to receive a text.
You will also need a G-mail account, which is a free and easy to create email address that will act as your all-in-one Google account for all things the Big G offers (email, YouTube, Google Drive and more).
However, if you are a DotGO customer we will set up your account for you professionally – using bespoke content created by a dedicated content writer and using your own branding (or even the logo we design for you).
Talk to our friendly sales team to find out more about working with DotGO to bring your small business online with an affordable website design.
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