Did you know that one of the most effective and often underutilized tools is the Google Business Profile (GBP), which was formerly known as Google My Business? It may be common knowledge now that if you have a business, all you need to do is create a GBP with the basic information and then leave it alone.
However, being active on your GBP enhances your visibility on Google Search and Maps, which contributes significantly to your local SEO performance. That’s why we recommend you have someone manage your GBP listing, and if it can’t be someone internally, the best step would be to hire out for SEO services.
Here’s how you can stay active on your Google Business Profile and the SEO benefits that come with it.
1. Regularly Update Business Information
Keeping your business information accurate and up-to-date is a fundamental way to stay active. This includes your:
- Business name
- Address
- Phone number (NAP)
- Website URL
- Business hours (especially holiday or seasonal changes)
- Services or products offered
Google prioritizes businesses with consistent and verified information across all online platforms. This helps improve your local search rankings and builds trust with potential customers.
SEO Benefit: Accurate, consistent information increases your chances of appearing in local “near me” searches and Google’s Local Pack, which is a group of the top three local results that appear before organic listings.
2. Post Regular Updates and Offers
Google Business Profile allows you to publish posts, much like social media. You can share:
- Announcements (e.g., new products or services)
- Special promotions or discounts
- Events or seasonal campaigns
- Blog posts or business news
Posting consistently signals to Google that your business is active and engaged. These updates also give customers reasons to revisit your listing.
SEO Benefit: Regular posts increase user engagement and time spent on your profile, both of which are positive signals for local SEO. Posts also give Google more content to index, which can improve keyword relevance.
3. Add High-Quality Photos and Videos
Visual content helps your business stand out in local search results. Upload images of:
- Your storefront and interior
- Products or services
- Team members
- Happy customers or events
Adding videos, such as behind-the-scenes clips or customer testimonials, also enriches your profile.
SEO Benefit: Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites, according to Google. More engagement leads to better visibility.
4. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and make it a point to respond to them, both positive and negative. Timely and professional responses demonstrate that you value customer feedback.
SEO Benefit: Reviews are a key local ranking factor. Businesses with more positive reviews and higher star ratings tend to rank higher in local search results. Engaging with reviews also boosts credibility and trust.
5. Use Google Business Messaging
Google allows customers to message your business directly from your profile. Turning on this feature and responding promptly increases interaction and trust.
SEO Benefit: Increased interaction can signal relevance and engagement to Google, potentially boosting your local search visibility.
6. Track Performance with Insights
Use the built-in Google Business Profile Insights to monitor how customers find your business, what actions they take (calls, clicks, direction requests), and what content performs best. Use this data to refine your strategy.
SEO Benefit: Understanding what works allows you to focus your efforts on high-impact activities, which can improve your rankings and user experience.
Call Bipper Media to Manage your Google Business Profile
Being active on your Google Business Profile is a powerful SEO tool. By regularly updating your information, posting fresh content, engaging with customers, and monitoring performance, you can significantly enhance your local online visibility. In a competitive digital market, maintaining an active and optimized GBP can be the difference between being discovered or being overlooked. Stay consistent, stay engaged, and watch your local rankings rise.
To ensure your Google Business Profile is fully-optimized and up-to-date, contact Bipper Media today. Whether you need to update business hours, add new photos, or ensure accurate contact information, Bipper Media’s expert team can help you manage every aspect of your profile. A well-maintained listing boosts your visibility in local search results, making it easier for customers to find and choose you. We are here to help you achieve your Local 3-Pack goals.
Schedule a call with us today!