Google My Business profile optimisation involves setting up and enhancing a business's Google profile to boost its visibility in local search results and on Google Maps.
Overview of Google My Business profile optimisation
Google My Business (GMB) profile optimisation involves setting up and enhancing a business's Google profile to boost its visibility in local search results and on Google Maps. This process ensures the profile is accurate, engaging, and appealing to potential customers, helping to increase local awareness and drive more business.
Why is Google My Business profile optimisation important?
An optimised GMB profile is crucial for businesses targeting local customers. Here’s why:
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Enhanced local visibility: GMB profiles appear prominently in local search results and on Google Maps. An optimised profile helps your business stand out, attracting more views and engagement from users searching for services in your area.
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Increased trust and credibility: A complete, well-maintained profile that includes customer reviews, accurate hours, and appealing visuals builds trust with potential customers, making your business a preferred choice over competitors.
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Higher conversion rate: With features like photos, reviews, services, and promotions, GMB profiles allow businesses to showcase their best aspects, influencing potential customers to make contact, visit, or purchase.
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Improved SEO: Google favours active and accurate GMB profiles. An optimised profile helps improve your search rankings, increasing visibility for relevant local searches.
What's the impact on SEO?
A well-optimised GMB profile has a significant impact on local search engine optimisation (SEO). Google relies on business profiles to verify and index local businesses in search results, and a complete, updated profile can improve your rankings in “near me” searches. This means that when customers look for services or products in your area, your business is more likely to appear higher in the search results. By increasing your profile’s engagement—through customer reviews, regular updates, and relevant keywords—your GMB listing reinforces your website’s SEO, which can further enhance your position in organic search results.
Key subtasks in Google My Business profile optimisation
Optimising a GMB profile includes a series of detailed steps to ensure the profile is thorough and accurate:
1. Optimise business description and keywords
- Craft a concise description: Highlight unique aspects of your business, local relevance, and value propositions.
- Use relevant keywords: Naturally integrate local SEO keywords to boost visibility in searches.
2. Visuals and media management
- Upload high-quality photos: Include photos of your premises, products, team, and services to engage potential customers.
- Add videos: Short videos can provide a more dynamic, engaging view of the business.
- Update media regularly: This keeps the profile fresh and appealing.
3. Review management
- Monitor customer feedback: Regularly check for reviews to maintain a good reputation.
- Communicate with clients: If reviews require a response, collaborate with clients to ensure appropriate communication.
4. Post updates and offers
- Share regular posts: Publish updates, news, promotions, and events to keep customers informed and engaged.
- Highlight promotions and events: Showcase offers or upcoming events to increase customer interest.
5. Insights and analytics monitoring
- Track engagement: Use GMB insights to analyse customer actions, profile views, and which features are performing best.
- Adjust strategy accordingly: Refine profile content based on engagement data and customer behaviour.
6. Ensure accurate information
- Regularly review business information: Confirm that the business name, address, phone number, and website are accurate and up-to-date.
- Check and update hours of operation: Keep business hours current, including holiday hours or special events.
7. Manage FAQs
- Create a list of frequently asked questions: Compile common questions from customers and provide clear, concise answers.
- Update FAQs regularly: Review and revise the FAQ section based on new queries and customer feedback.