Maximize Google Business Profile to Attract More Customers

If you run a local business, reaching more customers is vital. Luckily, Google Business Profile ( formerly known as Google My Business GMB ) can help you do just that. It’s a free tool that lets you manage how your local business appears in Google Search and Maps.

According to Google, 30% of all mobile searches are related to location. Therefore, your Google Business Profile can help you attract more customers to your local business, whether they’re from within your city or other parts of India.

Here are steps to make the most of Google Business Profile and attract more customers:

Claim and Verify Your Business

Start by claiming your business . Go to the Google Business Profile website and follow the instructions to verify that you’re the business owner. This helps you control the information Google shows about your business.

Example: Priya, the owner of “Saree Splendour,” goes to the Google Business Profile website, claims her business, and verifies it by receiving a verification code at her boutique’s address. This helps her gain control over her business listing on Google.

Complete Your Profile:

Fill in every detail about your business – name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, etc. Add appealing photos that showcase your products, services, and ambiance.

Example: Priya fills in all details about Saree Splendour – the boutique’s name, address, phone number, website, and operating hours. She uploads vibrant photos of beautiful sarees, elegant salwar suits, and the boutique’s interior.

Choose the Right Categories

Select categories that describe your business accurately. This helps Google match your business with relevant searches. Be specific! If you’re a pizza place, don’t just choose “restaurant.” Go for “pizza restaurant.”

Keep Information Updated:

Ensure your business details are accurate and up-to-date. If your hours change or you have special holiday hours, update them promptly. Customers appreciate accurate information.

Example: Priya promptly updates Google Business Profile whenever Saree Splendour has special sales or changes its hours for festivals like Diwali or Eid. This ensures customers searching for her shop get accurate information.

Encourage Reviews:

Positive reviews on GMB can attract more customers. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews by providing great service and politely asking them to share their experience.

Example: Priya delivers excellent service and encourages her customers to leave reviews on Google about their shopping experience at Saree Splendour. Happy customers often leave positive feedback, attracting new patrons.

Engage with Customers:

Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, promptly and politely. Engaging with customers shows that you value their feedback and care about their experience.

Example: Priya responds graciously to all reviews. If a customer praises the shop’s collection, Priya warmly thanks them. If there’s a complaint, she addresses it politely and offers a solution promptly.

Use Posts and Updates:

GMB allows you to post updates, events, and offers directly to your profile. Utilize this feature to keep customers informed about promotions, events, or new products/services.

Example: Priya regularly posts about new saree designs, festive offers, or styling tips on Saree Splendour’s Google business profile. These updates keep her customers engaged and informed.

Utilize Insights:

GMB provides insights into how customers find your business and what they do after finding it. Use this data to understand your audience better and tailor your strategies accordingly.

Example: Priya checks GMB insights to see how customers discover Saree Splendour. If most find the shop through Google searches, she focuses on optimizing her Google Business Profile and website for better visibility.

Use Messaging Feature:

Enable the messaging feature to allow customers to communicate with you directly through your profile . Prompt responses can improve customer satisfaction.

Example: Priya enables the messaging feature on Google Business Profile (GBP). Customers can now inquire about fabric details, availability, or custom stitching directly through Google, and Priya ensures quick and helpful responses.

Add Products or Services:

If applicable, showcase your products or services within Google Business Profile . This gives customers a glimpse of what you offer before they even visit your website or store.

Example: Priya adds sarees, salwar suits, and accessories as products on GBP, showcasing various styles like Banarasi silk, Kanjivaram, and designer collections. Customers browsing GBP get a glimpse of Saree Splendour’s offerings.

Create Q&A Section:

Anticipate customer queries by creating a Q&A section on your Google business profile. Answer common questions to provide helpful information upfront.

Example: Priya anticipates common queries about fabric care, return policies, or blouse stitching and sets up a Q&A section on Google business profile. This preemptively addresses customer concerns, enhancing their shopping experience.

By using Google business profile effectively, you can enhance your online presence, connect with more customers, and ultimately grow your business. Regularly updating and engaging with your profile keeps your business relevant and attractive to potential customers searching for your products or services.

Google Business Profile FAQs