Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the most important asset for local SEO. When optimized correctly, it can put your business in front of thousands of potential customers searching for your services.
Here's the complete optimization checklist we use for our clients:
Basic Information (Foundation)
- ✅ Business Name: Use your exact legal business name (no keyword stuffing)
- ✅ Address: Ensure it matches exactly across all online listings
- ✅ Phone Number: Use a local number, not a call tracking number
- ✅ Website: Link to a relevant landing page, not just homepage
- ✅ Hours: Keep accurate, including special holiday hours
- ✅ Categories: Choose the most specific primary category
Business Description
Your 750-character description should:
- Lead with what you do and who you serve
- Naturally include your main keywords
- Mention your service area
- Highlight what makes you different
- Include a call-to-action
Photos & Videos (Critical for Engagement)
Businesses with photos receive 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks. Add:
- 📷 Logo (250x250px minimum)
- 📷 Cover photo (1080x608px)
- 📷 Interior and exterior photos
- 📷 Team photos (builds trust)
- 📷 Product/service photos
- 🎥 Short video (30-60 seconds)
Posts (Stay Active)
Google Posts keep your profile fresh and engaging:
- Post at least once per week
- Include a clear image and CTA button
- Share offers, events, updates, and tips
- Use posts to highlight seasonal services
Reviews (Your #1 Ranking Factor)
Reviews are the most influential local ranking factor:
- Ask every happy customer for a review
- Respond to ALL reviews within 24 hours
- Address negative reviews professionally
- Never buy fake reviews (Google will penalize you)
Q&A Section
Proactively add common questions and answers before customers ask them. This helps with:
- Reducing customer service calls
- Showing up for more search queries
- Building trust with potential customers
Products & Services
Add all your services with:
- Clear, descriptive names
- Detailed descriptions with keywords
- Price ranges (if applicable)
- High-quality images
Attributes
Enable all relevant attributes like:
- Women-owned, Veteran-owned, etc.
- Wheelchair accessible
- Payment methods accepted
- COVID-19 safety measures
Need Professional Help?
Optimizing your Google Business Profile is just the first step in local SEO. For a comprehensive strategy that includes citations, reviews, and local content, schedule a free consultation with our local SEO experts.