When someone nearby searches for a service you offer, the first thing they often see isn’t a website. It’s the map and the short list of local businesses at the top of Google. Those listings come from each business’s Google Business Profile, and a complete, active profile is one of the most effective ways for a small business to get more local calls.
The good news is that you don’t need to be a tech expert to improve yours. Here are the plain-English steps we recommend to small-business owners around Charleston, Huntington and Hurricane.
What Is a Google Business Profile?
Your Google Business Profile is the free listing that shows your business in Google Maps and in the local results on Google Search. It can show your name, phone number, hours, services, photos, reviews and a link to your website. For many customers, it’s the first impression of your business, and sometimes the only one before they pick up the phone.
1. Make Sure Every Detail Is Complete and Accurate
Start with the basics. Check that your business name, address or service area, phone number, website and hours are correct. Incomplete or outdated information can cost you calls, especially if a customer drives to your location or calls during hours you’ve since changed.
- Update your hours for holidays and seasonal changes.
- Use a phone number that is answered during business hours.
- Link to your website so interested customers can learn more.
2. Choose the Right Categories and Services
Categories tell Google what your business does. Pick the primary category that best describes your main service, then add secondary categories for other services you truly offer. List your individual services, too. This helps Google match your profile to the searches your customers are actually making.
3. Add Real Photos of Your Work
Photos help customers trust you before they ever call. Add clear pictures of your storefront, your team, your vehicles or your finished work. Real photos of your own business tend to say a lot more than stock images, and adding new ones from time to time keeps your profile looking active.
4. Post Updates Regularly
Google Business Profile lets you share short posts about news, seasonal offers, events or new services. Regular posts show customers and Google that your business is active, and they give searchers another reason to choose you.
5. Earn and Respond to Reviews
Reviews are one of the most important local ranking factors. A steady stream of positive Google reviews helps you rank higher in Google Maps and convinces searchers to choose you over the competition.
- Ask happy customers for a review after a job well done. A simple link makes it easy.
- Reply to every review, positive or negative, in a friendly, professional way.
- Never buy or fake reviews. It can damage your reputation and your listing.
6. Keep Your Business Information Consistent Everywhere
Your name, address and phone number should match across your website, Google Business Profile, social media and online directories. Consistent listings help search engines trust that your information is correct, which is a key part of local SEO.
7. Make Sure Your Website Backs It Up
Your profile and your website work together. When customers click through, your site should load quickly, work well on a phone and make it easy to call or send a message. If your site is slow or dated, our post on the signs your business website needs a redesign can help you decide what to do next.
Be Wary of Ranking Guarantees
No one can honestly guarantee a #1 spot on Google, because Google controls its results. Be cautious of anyone who promises one. What you can count on is following Google-approved methods, keeping your profile active and tracking your progress over time.
Get Help with Local SEO
CC Technologies is a small, family-owned company that provides local SEO services, including Google Business Profile optimization, for businesses in Charleston, Huntington, Hurricane and the surrounding areas. You’ll work directly with the owner and get plain-English reports on your rankings, traffic and leads. We also offer web design and digital marketing to help you turn more searches into customers.
Want to know where your business stands? Contact us, email about@cctechnologieswv.com or call (304) 543-3822 for a free consultation.
