The ultimate guide to Google Business Profiles

The Ultimate Guide to Google Business Profiles

As a business owner, it’s likely that you’re always looking for ways to boost your online presence, and there are many things you can do. Here’s our guide to Google Business Profiles.

For your business to be successful online, you need to be proactive. This means ensuring a strong content marketing strategy by using social media and blogging. Your Google Business Profile is another element that you can use to boost your online presence.

What is Google Business Profile?

Google Business Profile was previously known as Google My Business. It changed its name and focus in 2021.

A Google Business Profile allows you to control the information that is displayed about your business in Google searches and Google Maps. When your business is searched for on Google, there is a side panel that displays information about your business. If a query relating to your business is searched for, then you can increase your chances of showing up by optimising your business profile.

You can make a Google Business Profile listing for a product or service business.

How else can my business appear on Google?

Quality website optimisation techniques allow you to increase the chances of showing up for relevant search queries. This is known as organic search, and means that your business is appearing through great search engine optimisation (SEO) rather than through paid means.

In contrast, you can also use search engine advertising to ensure that your website appears for specific search queries. This is known as PPC Advertising, which means you need to bid on specific keywords relating to your business. When your ad is clicked, you will need to pay a fee. The aim is for the user to make a purchase, and therefore, you get a great return on your investment. Both SEO and paid ads can be tailored to your business location.

What are the benefits of using a Google Business Profile?

Increase visibility

Utilising your profile allows you to increase visibility for your business in Google search results. It allows users to call your business or visit your website URL with one click. It also means that your business will appear in Google Maps, which can enhance your reach.

Increase engagement

In addition to making direct calls, you can give users the ability to book appointments with your business. You can also get customer reviews and respond to them on your Google Business Profile.

Boost trust

Having updated business information shows customers that you want to ensure a good experience for them, which can help to build trust. Consumers are much more likely to work with brands that display trust signals. You can use photos and respond to reviews to help with this.

Utilise analytics

Digital technology allows for more transparency and means that business owners can access insightful data. This may include information regarding how people usually find the business and what aspects they are most interested in. These analytics can be compared to those on your website and social media channels.

Great for SEO

A Google Business Profile is great for local SEO. You can optimise your profile to reach people in close proximity to your business.

Google Business Profile guide

Tips for Google Business Profile Optimisation

To access your Google Business Profile, you need to claim it. New businesses may need to create a profile. We’re going to let you know more information about this later in the blog.

  • Ensure the information is always kept up to date – users will turn to other companies if they cannot find what they want.
  • Add photos and videos to keep users engaged
  • Provide regular business updates
  • Always respond to both positive and negative reviews
  • Use relevant keywords in the business description to boost optimisation
  • Update your business hours during seasonal holidays
  • Share company events

All of these things help to build consumer confidence and trust as your business information is being updated regularly.

How to create your profile

New businesses will need to create their profile from scratch. Here are the steps you need to take.

  1. Visit google.com/business and log in to your Google account.
  2. Enter your business name and address
  3. Select a business category that fits best
  4. Input your business information, such as phone number, website address and business hours
  5. Verify your business listing on Google
  6. Complete the profile

Regularly update your page to boost your business and gain a competitive advantage compared to other local businesses

How to claim your profile

If there is an existing business listing for your company, you will need to follow the steps to claim it. For the process to be successful, you will need to input your information and explain why you are requesting to claim the business profile.

  1. Visit business.google.com/add
  2. Enter the name and address of your business – all profiles need a business address
  3. Select your business from the results and click ‘request access’
  4. Complete the verification process – Fill out the form with your contact details and include reasons for your ownership request
  5. Submit the request

It’s absolutely vital that you create or claim a Google Business Profile for your company. This free tool allows you to share the most accurate information for your business.

Do you need support with your Google Business Profile and SEO strategy? Our expert team in Dubai can help. We will work closely with you to understand your goals and help you achieve them. Contact us today.

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