Google Business Profiles are a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google’s search engine, maps, and other properties. By claiming and optimising your business profile on Google Business, you can improve your local SEO and increase your chances of being found by potential customers. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of Google My Business for local SEO and business growth.
Increased visibility in search results
Having a Google Business Profile allows your business to show up in Google’s “local pack” and on Google Maps. The local pack is the set of three listings that appear at the top of the search results when someone searches for a local business or service. By optimising your listing, you can improve your chances of appearing in the local pack and increase your visibility in search results.
Improved local SEO
Google Business Profiles are a key factor in local SEO. By optimising your listing, you can improve your local SEO and increase your chances of ranking higher in Google’s search results for geographically related key terms.
Some of the factors that affect your local SEO include your business’s proximity to the searcher, your business’s relevance to the search query, and your business’s authority or trustworthiness. By optimising your listing with accurate information, relevant keywords, and high-quality images, you can improve all of these factors and improve your local SEO.
For example, Leam Valley Golf Centre, commissioned a new website in 2024, with rankings struggling until their Google Business Profile was correctly amended to link their new website. Thereafter their local SEO increased significantly.
Increased website traffic
With Google Business profiles ability to add a link to your website, which can drive more traffic to your site. When someone clicks on your website link from your GMB listing, it can help to improve your website’s search engine rankings and increase your organic search traffic.
Improved customer engagement
If you’re looking for a way to be able to communicate directly with your customers then Google Business profiles have you covered. You can add posts, respond to reviews, and answer questions from potential customers. By engaging with your customers through your listing, you can build trust and credibility with your audience and improve your overall online reputation.
Increased customer trust
Did you know that Google Business profiles provides a platform for customers to leave reviews about your business? Positive reviews can help to build trust with potential customers and improve your online reputation. By responding to reviews and engaging with your customers, you can show that you value their feedback and are committed to providing excellent customer service.
Valuable insights
Google Business profiles provide valuable insights about your audience and how they interact with your listing. You can see how many people have viewed your listing, how many have clicked on your website link, and how many have called your business. By analysing these insights, you can gain a better understanding of your audience and improve your marketing efforts.
In conclusion, Google’s Business profiles are a powerful tool for local SEO and business growth. By optimising your listing, you can increase your visibility in search results, improve your local SEO, drive more website traffic, engage with your customers, build trust and credibility, gain valuable insights.