How To Set Up Google Business Profile

How to Set Up and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Welcome to the Google Business Profile section of our course! Whether you’re watching this as part of our full blueprint or diving into it as a standalone lesson, I’m here to make this simple, fun, and actionable. Let’s get to it!

What Is Google Business Profile?

Your Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business, is a powerful tool for managing how your business appears on Google, especially in the Maps section. This is your digital storefront where potential customers can:

• Find your business info at a glance.
• Read reviews that impact their buying decisions.
• Learn why your business is the one they should choose.

Why You Need a Google Business Profile

Here’s the deal:

1. Visibility: Everyone uses Google to find stuff. Your GBP puts your business right in front of them.
2. Reviews Matter: On average, people read 10 reviews before making a decision. Positive reviews improve your local SEO, boost trust, and drive sales.
3. It’s a No-Brainer: A polished GBP helps you stand out from the competition.

How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown (no tech skills required!):

1. Go to google.com/business  (psst! I highly suggest you check out this post and you might get $3k from Google!)
   • Click “Manage Now” to start.
2. Create an Account or Log In
   • Use your existing email or create one just for your business.
3. Verify Your Business
   • Google will send a verification code to your phone or via postcard (yes, old-school mail).
4. Add Your Info
   • Business Name & Category: Choose the most relevant category to describe your business.
   • Location: Decide if you want your address public (great for brick-and-mortar) or hidden (for service-based businesses).
   • Contact Details: Add your phone number and website.
5. Optimize Your Listing
   • Business Hours: Keep these accurate and update them for holidays!
   • Photos: Add at least 10 real photos. No stock images—people want to see you, your team, and your work!
   • Description: Use all 750 characters to showcase your services, service areas, and why customers should choose you.

Pro Tips for Optimization

• Name Your Photos: Don’t just upload “IMG1234.jpg.” Use descriptive filenames like “Ohio-Lawn-Care-Service.jpg.” Google loves this stuff, and it boosts your search rankings.
• Use Video: Videos are king! Show off before-and-afters, highlight your team, or give customers a behind-the-scenes look.
• Keep It Updated: Add special hours, new photos, and fresh updates regularly.

FAQs About Google Business Profile

• “What if I mess up?”
  No worries! You can edit everything in your dashboard. Changes usually show up immediately or within a few hours.
• “Do I need a website?”
  Yes! While your GBP is great, having your own website gives you even more control over your brand and customer experience.
• “Should I run ads?”
  YES!  You need to learn how to run Google Ads all by yourself.  It’s super simple.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Setting up and optimizing your Google Business Profile isn’t rocket science, but it’s a game-changer for local businesses. Need help? Drop by our forum, and we’ll walk you through it.

Now, go claim your spot on Google and start winning more customers today!