Local Marketing2 min read
The Google Business Profile Checklist Every Local Business Needs
Your Google Business Profile is often the first thing local customers see. Use this checklist to make sure it's working as hard as it can.
By Aarti
When someone searches for a business like yours nearby, Google often shows a map with three businesses before any websites. Those listings come from Google Business Profile, a free tool that many businesses set up once and then forget. Here's how to make yours stand out.
1. Get the basics exactly right
- Business name exactly as it appears on your signboard (no extra keywords)
- Correct address or service area, phone number and website
- Accurate opening hours, including special hours for holidays
- The most specific primary category that describes your business
2. Add photos, and keep adding them
Profiles with real photos look more trustworthy and get more engagement. Add your logo, cover photo, storefront, interior, team and products or work. Fresh photos every month show customers (and Google) that your business is active.
3. Fill in services, products and description
Use the description to explain what you do and who you help in plain language. List your main services or products with short descriptions. These details help Google understand when to show your profile.
4. Build a steady flow of genuine reviews
- Ask happy customers for a review, at the moment they're happiest
- Make it easy with a short link or QR code at your counter
- Reply to every review, positive or negative, politely and professionally
- Never buy fake reviews or offer rewards for positive ones; it breaks Google's rules
5. Post updates regularly
Google Business Profile lets you publish posts for offers, events and news. Posting regularly keeps your profile fresh and gives searchers another reason to choose you.
6. Check your insights
Your profile shows how many people found you, called you, asked for directions or visited your website. Review these numbers monthly to see what's working.