17 Easy Google Business Profile Optimization Tips (Local SEO)

Storyteller Media covers SEO, online business, and marketing. When you use our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

These Google Business Profile optimization tips will help your profile to generate new customers. These tips are relatively easy to implement. We recommend setting aside an hour or two to begin implementation.

Google Business Profile Optimization Tips (Local SEO)

Have you set up your Google Business Profile? Congratulations! This is an essential first step to establishing your local SEO.

The next step is to optimize your Google Business Profile (GBP). This will improve your visibility in local search results.

Need help optimizing your Google Business Profile? We offer a complete optimization service that incorporates these tips and more.

Follow these Google Business Profile optimization tips to maximize your GBP potential.

1. Use Accurate Business Information

• Accurate NAP (Name/Address/Phone): Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are correct.
• Match your NAP information across all online platforms. Remaining consistent in how you present your company details is an important factor in Google’s understanding that all these profiles refer to your company.
• Avoid adding extra keywords to your business name. This is against Google’s terms of service and can result in being suspended or disabled. Using additional words in your business name might a short term boost, it is risky to the stability of your profile.

2. Choose the Right Categories

• Select a primary category that best fits your business. Take the time to choose the best primary category for your business. This is a crucial ranking factor.
• Add secondary categories if they apply. You can add up to 9 additional categories.
• Categories help Google understand what your business offers. Your selected categories also show customers that you provide what they need.

3. Write a Clear Business Description

This is where you get to communicate directly with your customers. You can share your values, history, and methodology.

• Use simple language to describe your products or services. Avoid being too technical, but speak directly to your customer. How would you describe your product/service to a prospect at a trade show? This can help you create a concise and helpful business description for your GBP.
• Focus on key terms your customers search for. How do customers refer to your products when they call or visit your location? Including these expressions will help prospective customers know they are in the right place when they find your Google Business Profile.
• Keep the description under 750 characters. But use as much of the space as makes sense. Remember to include what you offer, what sets you apart, your history, and anything else your customers should know.

Remember: Don’t include links or html code. There are other places to share your website.

Business description tips: Include a mix of descriptive terms (product and services offered) and friendly and welcoming expressions. You’ll want your customers to know that they are in the right place – and that you want to do business with them.

4. Add High-Quality Photos

• Include images of your location, products, and services. Consider what images you find helpful when evaluating a new business to work with.
• Use photos that are clear and well-lit. Consider doing a photo shoot just for your GBP profile. Maybe book a photographer or hire a young relative with a great phone.
• Update photos regularly to show current offerings. Once you have your photos prepped, consider putting them in a folder to share with the person or agency managing your Google Business Profile.

Photo tips: Don’t use stock photos or AI-generated images. Your customers want to see what your business does and looks like. Include a mix of candid and professional photos, depending on your industry.

5. Encourage Customer Reviews

• Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews.
• Respond to all reviews, whether positive or negative.
• Show appreciation for feedback to build trust.

Consider implementing a systematized review collection program, like Local Reviews App. We created the Local Reviews App to make it easier to collect great reviews and improve customer service.

Here’s some help in managing customer reviews.

6. Keep Business Hours Up to Date

• Update your hours for holidays or special events.
• Display accurate hours to avoid confusing customers.

We recommend scheduling a monthly time to review and update upcoming changes to business hours. You might also share special hours in a profile post.

7. Use Google Posts

• Share updates, offers, or events with Google Posts.
• Keep posts short and engaging. Here are tips for creating engaging GBP posts.
• Include a call-to-action, such as “Learn More” or “Call Now.”

8. Add Products and Services

• List key products or services in the designated section. Avoid the temptation to list services as products. This is against Google’s terms of service.
• Use clear names and descriptions.
• Include pricing information if applicable.

9. Monitor Google Business Profile Insights

• Check insights to see how customers find your business.
• Focus on metrics such as searches, views, and actions.
• Use data to refine your optimization strategy.

10. Fix Profile Issues Quickly

• Look for errors, such as incorrect information or duplicate listings.
• Use Google’s support tools to address problems.
• Keep your profile error-free to maintain trust.

If you and your staff don’t have the time or capacity to monitor your profile, consider using a GBP management service.

11. Highlight Special Attributes

• Use attributes to showcase wheelchair accessibility, payment options, or outdoor seating.
• Also consider attributes such as women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, appointment required, or language assistance offered.
• Add relevant highlights to appeal to specific customer needs.

12. Enable Direct Messaging

• Activate the messaging feature to allow customers to contact you directly.
• Respond promptly to build trust and improve customer satisfaction.

13. Add a Business Introduction Video

• Upload a short video introducing your business, staff, or services.
• Keep the video under 30 seconds and ensure it is high quality.
• Videos enhance customer engagement.

14. Use Relevant Keywords

• Add relevant keywords naturally in your business description and posts. Keywords help improve your search rankings.
• Avoid keyword stuffing to maintain readability. Including too many keywords may undermine trust in your business. You’ll want to balance writing for the algorithm and customers.

15. Optimize for Seasonal Changes

• Update your profile with seasonal offers or services.
• Add holiday-specific hours to avoid confusion.
• Highlight seasonal events in Google Posts.

16. Link to Appointment Tools

• Use the “Book” button to connect scheduling platforms like Calendly, Google Workspace, or Booksy.
• Simplify the booking process for potential customers.

17. Track Profile Updates Regularly

• Review your profile monthly to ensure all information is up-to-date.
• Address new customer reviews or questions promptly.
• Regular updates signal an active and reliable business.

Why GBP Optimization Matters

• Improves local search rankings.
• Attracts more customers in your area.
• Provides useful information to potential clients.

Apply these tips to ensure your Google Business Profile works effectively for local SEO. This can help local businesses in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and PEI. Regular updates keep your profile accurate and engaging.