- A Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free listing that appears within search results on Google.
- Because of Google’s domanice in the search market, the GBP has become the most used listing on the internet.
- By filling out & optimizing a GBP, you can receive more visitors to your business or website.
In the dynamic landscape of online visibility, having a robust digital presence is indispensable for businesses. One powerful tool that can significantly elevate your online footprint is the Google Business Profile (GBP). Formerly known as Google My Business, GBP offers a unique opportunity for businesses to enhance their visibility in Google search results. The best part? It’s absolutely free! Having a Google Business Profile is not just beneficial; it’s essential for businesses of all sizes. The robust features, coupled with the vast reach of Google, make it a potent tool for enhancing your online presence, attracting local customers, and staying ahead in the digital game. But what exactly is a GBP? Where do GBP profiles appear? Can you have multiple profiles? If you’re asking any of these questions then keep reading because we’ve got all the answers and more below.
What is Google Business Profile (GBP)?
A Google Business Profile, formerly known as Google My Business, is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses and organizations to manage their online presence across various Google services. It enables businesses to create a listing that appears in Google Search and Google Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find essential information about the business. Key features of a Google Business Profile include business information, customer reviews, photos and videos, posts and updates, and insights and analytics. Having an up-to-date and accurate Google Business Profile is essential for local businesses, as it can improve their visibility in local search results and attract more customers. Businesses can claim and manage their profiles through the Google My Business website.
Where Do GBPs Appear?
This might seem like a silly question–where do GBPs appear? But believe it or not, GBPs show up in places all over Google! This includes Google Search Results, Google Maps, Google Local Pack, Google Knowledge Panels, Google Images, etc. Pretty much anything you look up on your mobile device is generated by Google! This visibility is especially valuable as Google continues to dominate the search engine market with over 90% market share.
Can You Have Multiple GBPs?
In short, yes! While having a single GBP is standard, businesses with multiple departments or locations can leverage separate listings for each. This ensures accurate information for each unit and maximizes local visibility. In order to successfully create multiple GBP listings, make sure to have a separate address, phone number, etc. so that Google doesn’t mark it as a duplicate listing.
10 Benefits of Having a GBP
A Google Business Profile is a crucial component of any localized Inbound Marketing strategy. It allows businesses to list their locations on Google Maps and local search results. These profiles provide a platform to showcase vital information such as opening hours, contact details, and even links to websites/social media. Recent features, like the ability to post articles or upcoming events add an extra layer of engagement. Below we have listed the top 10 benefits of a Google Business Profile.
1. Increased Visibility
Setting up a GBP is a simple yet highly effective way to enhance the online presence of your business. With the surge in geographically specific search queries, Google’s algorithms prioritize businesses with a Google Business Profile. This is especially true for “near me” searches.
2. Enhanced Credibility
A well-maintained and accurate business profile adds credibility to your business. Customers are more likely to trust businesses with a complete and up-to-date online presence.
3. Improved Local SEO
A Google Business Profile is a crucial component of local search engine optimization (SEO). It helps your business show up in local search results, especially when users are looking for products or services in your area.
4. Customer Engagement
Customers can leave reviews, ask questions, and engage with your business through the Google Business Profile. Responding to reviews and interacting with customers can enhance your relationship with them.
5. Visual Appeal
You can showcase your business with photos and videos. This provides potential customers with a visual representation of your products, services, and facilities. It has been shown that GBPs with lots of pictures get more clicks than GBPs without.
6. Business Insights
Google provides analytics and insights about how users interact with your business profile. This information can help you understand your audience and tailor your business strategies accordingly.
7. Promotional Opportunities
You can post updates, promotions, events, and special offers directly on your business profile. This feature allows you to communicate with your audience and attract more customers.
8. Mobile Accessibility
Many users search for local businesses on mobile devices. Having a Google Business Profile ensures that your business is easily discoverable on smartphones and tablets.
9. Free Marketing Tool
Creating and managing a Google Business Profile is free. It provides businesses with a cost-effective way to establish an online presence and the ability to reach a wider audience.
10. Customer Location Information
For businesses with a physical location, having a Google Business Profile helps customers find your address easily. People are also able to view directions and other essential information.
Types of Important Info on GBPs
Below we have listed out some of the crucial parts of a Google Business Profile.
NAP & URL
Accurate Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) information is vital. Incorrect details can lead to frustrated customers and impact your online credibility. Including your website URL ensures users can easily access more information from your website.
Categories
Choosing the right category for your business on GBP is crucial for accurate classification. With over 4,000 categories available, Google aims to accurately represent every business type.
Areas Served
Clearly defining the areas your business serves helps Google understand your locality relevance. Filling this section out enhances your chances of appearing in relevant local searches.
Business Description
Crafting a compelling business description with relevant keywords sets the stage for attracting potential customers. Highlight unique selling points to stand out from the competition.
Amenities
If your business offers specific amenities, such as wheelchair accessibility or free Wi-Fi, including them provides valuable information for potential customers.
Why Have a Marketing Agency Manage Your GBP
Marketing agencies often have experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of online marketing, including managing Google Business Profiles. They stay updated on industry trends and best practices, ensuring that your profile is optimized for maximum visibility. Managing a Google Business Profile involves regular updates, responding to reviews, posting updates, and analyzing performance metrics. Outsourcing these tasks to a marketing agency frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business. A marketing agency can develop a comprehensive strategy for your online presence, aligning your GBP with your broader marketing goals. This strategic approach can lead to more effective and cohesive digital marketing efforts.
An obvious reason to choose a marketing agency to manage your GBP is their creative team! Marketing agencies often have in-house content creation teams. They can produce high-quality photos, videos, and written content for your GBP, ensuring that your profile is visually appealing and engaging to potential customers. They can also help maintain a consistent brand image across all your online platforms. A marketing agency can monitor the performance of your GBP, analyze user engagement, and provide regular reports. In the event of negative reviews or online issues, a marketing agency can help manage and mitigate the impact. They can provide guidance on how to respond professionally and address concerns. Search engine algorithms and online marketing trends are constantly evolving. Marketing agencies are equipped to adapt quickly to these changes, ensuring that your GBP remains effective in attracting customers.
Choose Boiling Point Media to Manage Your GBP
Before hiring a marketing agency, it’s essential to communicate your specific goals and expectations. Additionally, you should choose a marketing agency that understands your industry and can tailor its services to align with your unique business requirements. Boiling Point Media stands out as a top choice for managing your GBP. With a track record of success, we understand the nuances of local SEO and the impact a well-managed Google Business Profile can have on your business. From optimizing your listing to leveraging new features like posts and photos, Boiling Point Media ensures your business stands out in the competitive digital landscape.
Boiling Point Media is a full service marketing agency located in the heart of Oklahoma City. At Boiling Point Media, our team is a unique group of creative minds, very knowledgeable in SEO and creating/optimizing online profiles to drive high traffic to your site. Additionally, our team excels in all mediums used in the digital marketing process like email marketing, social media marketing, SEO, and PPC so that we can choose the best marketing platforms to reach our client’s desired target market. We would love to chat with you so give us a call to discuss how we can help you optimize your Google Business Profile and take your company to its boiling point!