Boost Your Online Visibility with Google Business Profile

In the past, print ads and sales letters were enough to attract customers.

Now, with the rise of technology, having a strong online presence is more important than ever. So, if you're a local business in Scotland that lacks a digital footprint, you're likely missing out on reaching your target audience and potential sales.

But don't worry! There's a quick and free solution available: Google Business Profile (GBP). Setting up your account can help you reach local customers (or even tourists!) searching for services like yours.

In this edition of Inside Track, we're going to explore how GBP can do wonders for your business' engagement, reputation, and sales - both online and offline. Ready to take the first step to grow your business online? Let's get into it!

What is GBP?

Google Business Profile is a free tool that businesses can use so they can appear on local Google searches. With GBP, you can take control of your online presence and connect directly with your potential customers.

But why is creating GBP essential for local businesses?

• Your business will appear in the Local Pack listings

Do you see the list of businesses that appear at the top of search results when you look, for example, "vegan restaurant near me"? That is what we call Local Pack or Google 3-Pack. Ranking in Local Pack can help increase online visibility and foot traffic to businesses ranking here.

And without GBP, your business won't be able to get in the Google 3-Pack, since they use the information in GBP to see how relevant your business is to the search query.

• Your business can receive customer reviews

90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting the physical store. And, one key feature of having GBP, is that it allows your previous customers to leave reviews on your business.

Honest feedback from both satisfied and displeased customers can help you build trust and credibility. Most importantly, you can use this to improve your products/services along the way!

• Your business can regularly update or add information

When your business has GBP, important information such as address, contact number, and website appears on the search results. Additionally, when you need to update or add any of these details, it will immediately reflect on your profile and SERPs.

Having this information out there saves the time of users and ultimately encourages them to take action by either calling the number or visiting the website.

EXPLORE OUR GMB STARTER PACK SERVICE

How to make the most out of your GBP

Just having a GBP is not enough; you must continuously optimise it so your business will stay visible to potential customers and even boost your local SEO!

Here's how you can maximise its value:

1. Collect and respond to every review. Positive or negative, responding to reviews shows you value your customer's input and are dedicated to improving your services. Moreover, encouraging happy customers to leave reviews can also boost your ratings!

1. Answer questions about your business. Google allows users to ask questions directly on your GBP. Always provide clear, timely responses so potential customers can get the information they need. Doing this can also prevent misinformation about your business.

1. Select primary and secondary categories. Your potential customers won't find you if your business is under the wrong category. When choosing a primary category, think about what your business does as a whole. For the secondary category, see what other services your business offers.

1. Add photos. People are visual creatures, and photos of your business, products, or services make a great first impression. Regularly update your gallery with high-quality images that show your business in the best light.

1. Include your products/services. Don't forget to list your key offerings! This is your chance to show customers what you can do for them. Adding this information makes your profile complete and attractive.

HOW TO HANDLE GOOGLE REVIEWS

How Inspire Can Help

My team at Inspire specialises in helping local businesses enhance their online presence through GBP. Our marketing professionals have the expertise to improve local search rankings, increase visibility, and generate potential leads. Whether it's managing reviews or creating eye-catching posts, we are here through each step.

If you want to know more details and expand on this quick guide, please contact me through my email. I'd be happy to help out and give you advice that can bring your online presence to the next level!

REACH OUT TO DAVID