Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is often the first thing potential customers see. Here are 10 tips to make it work harder for you.
1. Complete every field
Profiles with complete information are 70% more likely to attract visits. Fill in hours, services, attributes, description, everything.
2. Choose the right categories
Your primary category is the single most important ranking factor. Be specific: "Italian Restaurant" beats "Restaurant."
3. Add photos weekly
Businesses with 100+ photos get 520% more calls than average. Post interior, food, team, and ambiance photos regularly.
4. Use Google Posts
Post updates, offers, and events weekly. It signals activity to Google and gives searchers fresh content.
5. Respond to every review
A 100% response rate is the #1 differentiator for local ranking. Use tools like GMB AI Review to make this effortless.
6. Add products and services
List your menu items, services, or products with prices. This helps Google match you to specific searches.
7. Enable messaging
Businesses with messaging enabled get 30% more inquiries. Respond within 24 hours to maintain access.
8. Keep hours accurate
Nothing kills trust faster than showing up to a closed business. Update holiday hours proactively.
9. Use Q&A proactively
Seed common questions and answers yourself. This prevents misinformation and adds keyword-rich content.
10. Track insights
Review your GBP insights monthly: search queries, photo views, direction requests. Adjust your strategy based on data.