Grow with Google Business
What is a Google Business Profile?
Previously known as Google My Business, a Google Business Profile (GBP) is a simple and free service that enables you to publish key business information online. This presence on Google Search and Google Maps gives your business more visibility and credibility to prospective customers. The more discoverable your business is, the more opportunities you have to drive sales and increase revenue.
How does it help your business?
Before we get into the benefits, let’s share a few insights. Did you know that prospective customers (also known as traffic in the online community) are 29% more likely to make a purchase from a business with a Google Business Profile? Customers are also 38% more likely to visit to your business location or website. This is because customers express direct intent when they search on Google. E.g. “Best Hairdresser in Johannesburg”. If you’re a hairdresser based in Johannesburg and you have a Google Business Profile, there’s a higher chance your profile will appear in the search results and therefore a higher chance of a sale.
If you would like to be part of a growing community of small and medium sized business that have benefitted from taking their business online with a GBP, read on or watch this 20-minute masterclass by Google South Africa on how you can list your business today.
Back to the benefits ;)
Share key information about your business
Display relevant information about your business such as your business name, location, operating hours, a link to your business website (watch this masterclass if you have don’t have one) and contact details. Have a look at these examples for reference The Laser Café, Tessa’s Bakery and Bupo Animal Health.
Make sure your business stands out by including quality photos and videos of your products and services, where relevant.
Build trust through reviews
Never underestimate the power of customer reviews, especially when it comes to search rankings. According to research, online reviews are estimated to make up 10% of how search engines rank results. Reviews give a business credibility because it’s based on feedback from your customers – this information is considered more objective and trustworthy.
Did you know that customers find a combination of positive and negative reviews more trustworthy than a business that only has glowing reviews? Don’t be afraid to reach out to your customers and encourage them to leave an honest review.
Increase customer engagement
Want to thank a customer for an insightful review? Or ask for their permission to use the amazing photos they took of your products on other platforms? With a GBP, you’ll be able to respond to reviews. This is a great way to make your customers feel valued and will encourage them to engage with your business more. Take a look at how Schoon and Cycle Fit actively engage with their customers through Google reviews – we love it!
Key insights that help you make better business decisions
In a previous article we shared the top 5 reasons to become a data-driven business and how it contributes to better decision making and cost saving. Having a Google Business Profile will give you access to insights about your customers. You’ll be able to have a view of who they are and how they’re engaging with your business. This is essential for business growth.
How to setup a Google Business Profile?
Setting up an account is quick and simple and includes the following steps:
Sign in to Google Business Profile Manager using your Google Account
Add your business.
Enter your location.
Fill in your contact information.
Verify your business. This may take a few days
Customize your profile.
Once your profile has been created and verified you will find it online for your clients and customers to see.
While doing research for this article we came across many businesses that have a GBP but sadly haven’t optimised it. We’ll get to work on an informative article or masterclass soon. Watch this space.
