Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is like your digital shopfront – often the very first impression potential customers get when they search for businesses like yours on Google Search and Maps. Getting great reviews is crucial (and we can help with that!), but there’s more you can do to make your profile really shine and attract more Aussie customers.
Feeling short on time? No worries! Here are five simple, effective tweaks you can make to optimise your Google Business Profile right now for better local visibility.
1. Fill Out Everything (Seriously!)
It sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how many profiles have missing pieces! Google loves complete information – it signals that your profile is active and relevant. Go through every section and fill it out accurately and thoroughly.
- Key Areas: Make sure your business name, address, phone number (NAP), website, opening hours, and categories are spot-on.
- Description: Write a clear, engaging description using keywords customers might search for.
- Services/Products: List what you offer – this helps Google (and customers) understand your business better.
- Attributes: Select relevant attributes (e.g., “Wheelchair accessible”, “Outdoor seating”, “Online appointments”, “Women-led” for applicable Aussie businesses).
Action: Do a quick audit of your profile today. Is every section complete and accurate?
2. Add Great Photos & Videos (Regularly!)
People are visual! Profiles with plenty of high-quality photos build trust and get more engagement (clicks, calls, direction requests).
- What to Add: Include photos of your storefront (inside and out), your products, your team in action, and maybe even happy customers (with permission, of course!). Showcasing your work helps potential clients visualise what you offer.
- Quality Matters: Use clear, well-lit photos. Smartphone photos are fine if they look good!
- Keep it Fresh: Aim to add new photos regularly (e.g., monthly) to show your profile is active. Consider adding short videos too!
Action: Upload at least 3 new, high-quality photos to your GBP this week.
3. Use Google Posts Frequently
Google Posts are like mini-updates or ads that appear directly on your profile in search results. They’re fantastic for sharing timely information and showing Google your business is active.
- What to Post: Share updates, special offers, new product arrivals, upcoming events, or even just a quick tip related to your industry.
- Keep it Current: Posts typically expire after 7 days (unless they’re for events), so aim to post something new at least weekly if possible.
- Include a CTA: Encourage action by adding a button like “Learn More”, “Call Now”, “Book”, or “Visit”.
Action: Create and publish one Google Post this week about a special offer, a new service, or a simple business update.
4. Answer Questions in the Q&A Section
Your GBP has a Question & Answer section where anyone can ask questions, and anyone can answer them. It’s crucial that you, the business owner, monitor and answer these promptly and accurately.
- Be Responsive: Check this section regularly. Providing helpful answers quickly shows great customer service.
- Be Proactive: You can pre-emptively add common questions and your own answers! Think about what customers ask you most often and put that info right on your profile.
Action: Check your Q&A section today. Answer any unanswered questions accurately. Consider adding one common question and answer yourself.
5. Keep Your Info Accurate & Updated (Especially Hours!)
This is critical! Nothing frustrates a potential customer more than showing up during listed opening hours only to find you closed, or calling an old phone number.
- Hours are Key: Double, triple-check your regular hours. Crucially, update them immediately for public holidays or any special closures/events. Google often prompts you for holiday hours – pay attention!
- Core Details: If you move, change your phone number, or update your website, make sure your GBP reflects these changes instantly. Inaccurate core information erodes trust fast.
Action: Verify your listed opening hours right now, including any upcoming public holidays relevant in Australia. Check your phone number and website link too.
Wrapping Up
Optimising your Google Business Profile doesn’t have to be a massive chore. By focusing on these five simple areas – completeness, visuals, posts, Q&A, and accuracy – you can significantly improve your local visibility, build more customer trust, and make it easier for Aussie customers to find and choose you. And of course, keep encouraging those Google reviews to really make your profile stand out!
