Why You Should Sign Up for a Google Business Profile (Immediately!)

If you're a marketer, website owner, or e-commerce business, you know how important it is to be visible online. If you’re also a customer who Googles businesses often or decides where you want to eat solely based on the information available about a business on Google, you’ve benefitted from the great features that Google Business offers. Keep reading to learn more about why you should sign up for a Business Profile with Google today.

So… what is it? Google Business is a free service that businesses, large and small, can take advantage of to manage their online presence. Google business profiles are easy to set up and provide a single comprehensive platform which offers a company an array of benefits. As soon as you have set up your Google business profile, Google will automatically index it with its search engine making it easier for customers to find your store or website quickly and easily. Google also makes it easy for customers to connect with your business through Google Maps integration.

Overall, it’s an invaluable social tool that gives your business a strong presence on Google Search and Maps, making it easier for customers to find you, BUT the catch is that you have to be active and displaying as much accurate information about your business.

Describe how to set up a profile

Setting up a profile can seem like a daunting process, but it really is quite simple. Start by entering in your business information and update it regularly. This will help increase views from various people visiting your business profile. Post regular photos of your business, your menu items or offerings, and replace the default image (which is usually defaulted to a Google street view image). Make sure the information you provide for others is user friendly and comprehensive; the easier it is for them to quickly understand who you are, the more likely they are to follow or even reach out to you.

The key, as I mentioned before, is to be as active as possible. Making sure that your business's online profile is visible and well-polished is actually not that difficult, although it can take a bit of time to get set up. There are some key things to pay attention to. First, if it feels appropriate, post photos of your business space and team members, as this helps customers form a connection with the business. If your business is a storefront of some kind, give customers a sense of the space. They'll feel like they know who they're coming in contact with, better.

Additionally, be sure to keep operating hours up-to-date on the profile - nothing creates a bad impression like showing’open’ when you’re actually ‘closed’!During the holidays, add your business hours.

I actually tested it myself! On one profile, I was very active (we did 2 updates a week), and on another, I did zero updates. The active profile got 900 NEW visitors to their website and 20% more phone calls. In less than 45 days. The proof is in the pudding. Update, update, update.

Making sure that your business's online profile is visible and well-polished is actually not that difficult, although it can take a bit of time to get set up. There are some key things to pay attention to. First, post photos of your business and team members, as this helps customers form a connection with the business. They'll feel like they know who they're coming in contact with. Additionally, be sure to keep operating hours up-to-date on the profile - nothing creates a bad impression like showing closed when you're open.

Finally, use tags or hashtags that are appropriate for your industry and consider sponsoring or boosting posts in order to increase visibility even further. Taking advantage of these tips, you can make sure people easily find your profile!

What are the advantages of the Google Business Profile over competitors?

When it comes to developing an online presence for your business, Google Business Profile offers a few key advantages you won't get with Yelp or other alternatives. Setting up a profile is very easy as Google walks you through the entire process with helpful tips and information along the way. Once set up, customers can review and rate your business, which helps establish a stronger reputation in the long run, The ease of use for the customer also makes a difference; reviewing a business becomes a simple, streamlined process with Google Business Profile. On top of that, customers using search phrases related to your business will be able to quickly access crucial data such as hours of operation and contact information through the profile itself. For those concerned about privacy and oversight, each Google-verified review must include a real name to help maintain accuracy without sacrificing credibility.

Since Google Business Profile is owned by the search engine most of us use, there’s little competition and high visibility. Would you rather be a big fish in a small pool, or have the opportunity to grow larger in a more competitive pool, with the right knowledge?

You haven’t signed up yet?

Signing up for a profile gives you access to a world of opportunities. Use it right, and you’ll be making better connections with potential customers, quicker. With the power of Google Business Profiles, you'll be able to make a real impact in your business’ visibility. So what are you waiting for? Sign up today or update your current profile.