I enjoyed a nice lunch with JJ Ortiz, who owns Ortiz Real Estate in Joplin, MO, dining at Big R’s BBQ on 15th street. While we were bouncing ideas off each other about market trends in our local area, JJ asked me straight out “I have a great website, so why do I need to spend time working on my Google Business Profile?”
I could certainly see how JJ felt this way since it was true, his website looks great and showcases his professional persona. He had every right to be proud of his investment, so how is it that a free listing like a Google Business Profile could make any difference, or add to the work and money he had already invested in his website?
A lot of local businesses are in the same place – they have invested in a nice website, because every serious business owner should have one, so why mess with a silly listing on Google that’s free and not nearly as sexy as the website they already have?
Well, here’s some questions to consider:
- What is your beautiful and expensive website doing for you?
- How many potential customers see your website, and what do they do when they get there?
The problem with not understanding how your Google Business Profile fits in is that you may have been trained to think “If I build a beautiful website – they will come”.
But that thinking is simply not true!
Look at how a local search works in this graphic illustration:
Your Google Business Profile is the first thing your potential customer will likely see when they search for your product or service. They are ready to buy! If your GBP is managed correctly your new customer will be pre-sold before they ever meet you.
A Google Business Profile is essential for businesses like yours to manage your online presence and improve local visibility in Google Search and Maps. It allows you to control how your business is displayed, including contact information, opening hours, and website link.
A verified profile can increase trust and help customers find you, making it a valuable tool for attracting local customers.
Why Google Business Profile Is So Important
Enjoy Increased Visibility:
Your business appears in local search results and Google Maps, making it easier for customers to find you.
Improve Your SEO:
A well-optimized profile can boost your local search ranking, leading to more organic traffic.
Instant Credibility:
Verifying your profile and providing accurate information builds trust with potential customers.
Customer Engagement:
You can respond to reviews, answer questions, and create posts to engage with customers directly.
Free and Easy:
Google Business Profile is free to set up and manage, offering a cost-effective way to improve your online presence.
Analytics:
You can access valuable data about how customers are interacting with your profile, helping you understand their behavior and optimize your business.
Show Off Your Business:
You can add photos, videos, and custom attributes to showcase your business and attract customers.
Connect:
You can create posts and offers to engage with customers and promote your business.
Get Leads:
A link to your website on your profile can drive traffic to your online platform.
How To Edit Your Google Business Profile
- On your cell phone go to the Google Maps app. Be sure you are signed in the Google account that you want to associate with your business.
- Look for the “Business” tab at the bottom menu.
- Either you will see your current profile listed there or you have the option to create one.
- At a minimum, be sure your business name is entered correctly, address, and phone number.
- If you are entering a new business profile, follow the bouncing red ball to verify your listing.
What Happens Next?
She’s searching for your product or service bc she’s ready to buy TODAY.
She enters ” (your product or service) near me”.
Google brings her the ” 3 pack” – the top three listings qualifying for that search.
Are you there?
She looks at “Reviews”
It’s not just the most stars, it’s about the BEST reviews. How have you answered past reviews? Are there current reviews or are they all a year old?
She decides who to buy from today based on the results. She’s already sold on your stuff and she will buy from you today.
That’s why managing your Google Business Profile is so important. It’s buying customers, right now, TODAY!
That's Lesson #1
So, before we move on to Lesson #2, go to your Google Business Profile and get it set up and working properly.
In Lesson #2 we’ll cover how to add photos and videos, Q&A, Offers and other important stuff.
You’ll get that link in your email shortly.
Did You Get In On The Review Pro Offer?
If you haven’t already started your free trial for Review Pro you can do it here.
This is a way to boost positive reviews to your Google Business Profile and stand out against your competition.
Ken Heistand | KB Web Solutions