In today's competitive marketplace, local visibility isessential for businesses of all sizes. One of the most powerful tools for improving your local presence is Google My Business (GMB), now part of Google Business Profile. This free platform allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find and connect with your brand.
Nearly 46% of all Google searches have local intent, with users looking for products and services near them. An optimised GMB listing positions you prominently in these search results, giving you valuable visibility when customers are ready to make purchasing decisions.
1. Claim and Verify Your Business Listing
Visit Google Business Profile and claim your listing. Complete every section thoroughly,including:
Having complete information signals to Google that your business is legitimate and active, which can improve your ranking in local search results.
2. Optimise Your Profile for Local SEO
Include relevant keywords in your business description that reflect both your services and locations. Select appropriate business categories and fill out all available sections, including "Products"and "Services" with detailed descriptions.
This categorisation helps Google understand what your business does and when to show your listing to searchers, enhancing your local SEO strategy.
3. Showcase Your Business with High-Quality Visuals
Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites than those without. Upload high-quality images that showcase your products, services, team, and workplace.
Name your image files with descriptive keywords before uploading (e.g., "custom-pool-design-melbourne.jpg") to strengthen your image SEO.
4. Leverage the Updates Feature
One of GMB's most powerful features is the Updates section, which allows you to share timely content directly on your Google listing:
These updates appear prominently in your GMB listing and can include images, text, and call-to-action buttons. Essentially, they're mini-advertisements that display right in your Google listing, giving you additional opportunities to engage potential customers.
To create an update, log into your GMB dashboard, select "Posts," and choose the type of content you want to share. Include eye-catching visuals, concise copy with relevant keywords, and a clear call-to-action for maximum impact.
5. Build Your Reputation with Reviews
Reviews significantly impact both your search ranking and customers' perception of your business. According to Bright Local research, businesses with more positive reviews tend to rank higher in local searches.
Develop a systematic approach to requesting reviews and always respond to ALL reviews – both positive and negative. This demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction and can turn negative experiences into positive outcomes. Plus, Google's algorithm considers review response rates when determining rankings.
To easily share your review link:
6. Track and Analyse Your Performance
Google provides valuable insights into how customers interact with your listing. Regularly review your performance metrics to understand how customers find your listing, what actions they take, and how your profile compares to competitors.
Use these insights to refine your digital marketing strategy and ensure continuous improvement in your local search performance.
While Google My Business is a free tool, optimising and maintaining it requires consistent effort and strategic know-how. At Butterfly Marketing, we specialise in helping businesses increase their local search visibility through comprehensive Google Business Profile management.
Our GMB optimisation services include complete profile setup, keyword-rich content development, regular updates, photo optimisation, review management, and performance tracking.
Contact Butterfly Marketing today to learn how we can help elevate your Google My Business presence and connect you with more local customers.
Visit our resource page for more digital marketing tips and strategies to help your business grow.
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