Google Business Profile 101: Get Found by More Customers
- Andrea Gross
- Jul 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 3
A Beginner’s Guide to Optimizing Your Google Business Profile
One of the most effective things you can do as a small business owner to increase your online visibility is to set up your Google Business Profile. A Google Business Profile is a free listing that helps your business appear in local search results and Google Maps.
Think of it as your digital welcome mat. It’s what helps your business appear in local search results and on Google Maps.
Whether you’re a coffee shop, contractor, therapist, or boutique owner, showing up in local search makes it easier for customers to find, contact, and trust your business.
Let’s walk through what Google Business is, why it matters, and how to optimize yours.
What Is a Google Business Profile?
Your Google Business Profile is like a miniature website. When someone searches for your business name or the types of services you provide in your area, this is often what they’ll see. It typically includes:
Your business name, where you’re located, your opening hours, and how to get in touch.
A direct link for folks to visit your website.
Pictures of your business space, your products, or the services you provide.
Reviews and ratings from your customers.
Updates you share about your business, answers to common questions, and more.
When your profile is complete and well-maintained, it becomes one of your most valuable local SEO tools, working for you around the clock.
Why Having One Matters for Your Small Business Journey
Helping People Find You (Right When They Need You)
Your profile enables your business to appear in the local map section you see in browser search results.
This is particularly powerful when someone uses phrases like “bakery near me” or “plumber in [your town]”. In fact, 86% of Google Business Profile views happen when people perform categorical searches like these.
Building a Little Extra Trust
Having a complete and up-to-date profile signals to potential customers that you’re an active and professional business. It also makes it easy for them to see what other customers think through reviews, helping them feel more confident in reaching out.
Building trust and positive reviews is incredibly important because 81% of consumers research reviews on Google before engaging with a business.
Guiding Customers Your Way
When people find your listing and it contains detailed information about your business, they’re often ready to take the next step, whether that’s clicking to your website, giving you a call, or even planning a visit to your physical location. A complete and up-to-date profile makes it easier for them to choose you.
Little Nudges to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Use high-quality photos: They make an excellent first impression and help people visualize your business and offerings.
Think about your description: Include keywords people might search for to find a business like yours in your area (e.g., “dog-friendly cafe,” “expert car repair in [your city]”).
Share updates: Keep your profile relevant by using the posts feature to share news about sales, events, or new items.
Connect through reviews: Respond to customer reviews, whether they’re short or long, positive or negative. It shows you value feedback and builds trust.
Anticipate questions: Add an FAQs section to provide quick answers to the questions you get most frequently.
Be consistent: Double-check that your business name, address, and phone number are the same across your website and any other online listings. Consistency helps Google and customers trust your information.
Want Help Getting Set Up or Optimized?
Little Nudge Marketing offers Google Business Profile setup and optimization as part of our marketing services for small businesses.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to learn about our services and how we can help you grow.
