"My GMB listing is so optimized, even my grandma can find my business faster than she finds her glasses!"
Ever wonder how some businesses seem to dominate the local search results on Google? It’s not magic—it’s all about Google My Business (GMB) optimization. For service-based businesses, GMB is a game-changer, giving you a chance to show up in local searches, display reviews, and make it easy for clients to find and book your services.
In this edition, we’ll break down five practical steps to optimize your Google My Business profile and turn it into a lead magnet for your business. Let’s get your business showing up where it matters most—right in front of your potential clients.
Growth Hack: 5 steps to optimize your Google My Business profile for maximum visibility 🚀
Optimizing your GMB profile ensures that when potential clients search for your services, they see you first. Here’s how you can make your profile stand out:
1. Complete Your Profile Fully 📋
The more information you provide, the better.
Action items for you: 👇
- Fill out every section: This includes your business name, description, services, hours, location, and contact information. Google ranks complete profiles higher.
- Use high-quality photos: Upload clear images of your workspace, team, and services. Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites.
2. Optimize Your Business Description 📝
This is your chance to tell potential clients what makes you different.
Here’s what to do: 👇
- Use keywords strategically: Include keywords that clients might search for, such as “best massage therapist in [city],” “experienced web designer,” or “[service] near me.”
- Highlight what makes you unique: Mention specific services or specialties to attract your ideal clients.
3. Collect and Respond to Reviews 🌟
Reviews are a massive trust factor for potential clients.
Steps to take: 👇
- Ask for reviews: After providing your service, ask clients to leave a review. Even a simple email request can help build your review count.
- Respond to reviews: Thank clients for positive reviews and address any concerns in negative reviews. Google rewards businesses that engage with their reviews, helping you rank higher in search results.
4. Post Regularly on GMB 🗣️
Just like social media, posting updates on GMB keeps your profile fresh and active.
Here’s how to do it: 👇
- Share promotions or special offers: If you’re running any deals, share them directly on your GMB profile.
- Post about new services: Introduce new services or showcase completed projects to keep your audience informed.
5. Use GMB’s Messaging Feature 📲
Make it easy for clients to contact you right from the search results.
Steps to take: 👇
- Activate messaging: Turn on the messaging feature to allow potential clients to send you inquiries directly through your GMB listing.
- Respond quickly: Google tracks response times, so a quick reply could increase your chances of ranking higher in local searches.
Tweet of the Week 🐦
Andrea Bosoni makes a great point here in laying out how “dominating your competitors” isn’t necessarily the way to win at the business game, but rather by excelling in a niche within the market.
Link Love ❤️
Here are a few resources to help you dive a little deeper into the world of GMB:
👉 Hootsuite’s guide to setting up and optimizing GMB
👉 Why Google My Business is important for YOU business
👉 13 Google My Business optimizations to rank higher in local search
👉 Try our free 14-day trial of Book Like A Boss!
That’s a Wrap 👊
Optimizing your Google My Business profile can make a huge difference for your business, especially when it comes to attracting local clients. It’s easy, it’s effective, and it’s free—so there’s no reason not to jump in and get it done!
