The short versionYour Google Business Profile is often the first thing a local customer sees. Seven small checks, done once and kept up, can make it much more useful.
When someone searches for a business like yours, your Google Business Profile is often the first thing they see, before your website. It is free, and it is worth looking after.
Here are seven things to check this week. None of them need technical skills.
1. Your details match your website
Check your business name, address and phone number. They should be the same on your profile, on your website and anywhere else you are listed. Small differences make it harder for Google to trust the information.
2. Your main category is as specific as possible
Your main category tells Google what you are. Pick the most specific one that fits, such as "Flooring contractor" rather than something general. You can add secondary categories for other things you do.
3. Your opening hours are right
Include bank holidays and any special hours. Turning up to a closed door because your profile was wrong is a quick way to lose a customer.
4. Your services are listed
Add each service you offer, with a short plain description. This helps Google match you to what people are searching for, and helps customers see what you do at a glance.
5. Your photos are real and recent
Add photos of your work, your premises and, if you are comfortable, yourself or your team. Real photos tend to build more trust than stock images. Aim to add new ones regularly.
6. You reply to your reviews
Reply to every review, the good and the less good, politely and briefly. It shows people you are paying attention. It is fine to ask happy customers to leave a review. Do not offer anything in return, as Google does not allow that.
7. You post updates
Use posts to share offers, news, recent jobs or events. A profile that has been updated recently looks more active and trustworthy than one that has been left alone for a year.
Check how you look from the outside
Once you have been through the list, search for your business name on your phone, then search for what you do plus your area. See what a customer would see. Is anything missing, out of date, or confusing?
Want a hand?
Looking after your profile is included in all of my monthly SEO plans, and the initial setup is part of my SEO Setup. If you would like me to take a look at yours first, it is free.
Want me to take a look?
Tell me about your business and I will tell you plainly what I would do, and what you can skip. It is free.
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