As a website designer, I have worked with numerous local businesses, and I found that having a Google Business Profile so important that I now include creating the profile in my website design packages. If you operate locally, you cannot be found if you don’t have a Google Business Profile. The good news is that creating a Google Profile is free and it should take you no more than 30 minutes to create it.
Here are some facts:
There are 40-60 million searches performed in the United States each month.
46 % of those searches are for local businesses.
80% of local searches will convert into a phone call in one day.
Here are five compelling reasons why every local business should prioritize having a Google Business Profile.
- Amplify Your Online Visibility: In a world dominated by search engines, having a Google Business Profile ensures that your local business appears prominently in relevant search results and on Google Maps. By optimizing your profile with accurate information, potential customers can easily discover and learn more about your business. This increased online visibility opens the door to a larger audience and boosts your chances of attracting new customers. The “robustness” of your Google Profile is viewed in comparison to you competitors. What I mean is that if you have more Reviews, Posts and clicks onto your Google Profile, than your competitors, you will rank higher than them in Google (which means more business for you).
- Foster Customer Engagement: One of the remarkable features of a Google Business Profile is the ability to engage directly with customers. Through reviews, questions, and answers, you can interact with your clientele in real-time. Responding to reviews, addressing concerns, and providing helpful information demonstrates your commitment to excellent customer service. This engagement builds trust, encourages loyalty, and sets you apart from competitors. If your local business using the chat feature, you will rank higher than your competitors who do not have this feature turned on. Having more reviews than your competitors will rank you in the top of Google’s search results, creating even more business for you!
- Provide Accurate Business Information: The accuracy and availability of business information play a crucial role in customer decision-making. With a Google Business Profile, you can provide up-to-date details such as your address, phone number, website, and operating hours. This ensures that potential customers have easy access to accurate information, eliminating confusion and enhancing their overall experience. Moreover, accurate information also boosts your search ranking and instills confidence in potential customers.
- Showcase Your Products and Services: A picture is worth a thousand words, and a Google Business Profile allows you to visually showcase your products or services. By including high-quality photos, engaging videos, and captivating descriptions, you can effectively communicate the unique value your business offers. These visual representations not only capture the attention of potential customers but also differentiate your business from competitors. By highlighting your offerings, you can leave a lasting impression and increase the likelihood of conversion.
- Gain Valuable Insights and Analytics: In today’s data-driven world, knowledge is power. Google provides invaluable insights and analytics through your Business Profile. You can access data on how customers discover your business, their actions on your profile (such as clicking on your website or calling you), and the reviews they leave. These insights enable you to make informed decisions about marketing strategies, understand customer preferences, and identify areas for improvement. By leveraging this data, you can optimize your business and stay ahead of the competition.
As a website designer passionate about helping local businesses thrive, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a Google Business Profile. The bottom line is Google is the number 1 search engine and you will make more money if you utilize the free benefits . Embracing these advantages will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of your local business. Don’t miss out on this powerful tool—create your Google Business Profile today and pave the way for a prosperous online presence.