Google Business Profile is a tool that offers a variety of ways for small, local businesses to establish their online presence. It’s also one of the pillars of the 8 steps to rank your small business higher on Google. Read on to learn more about the benefits of using Google Business Profile, including some of the new features introduced over the past year.
What is Google Business Profile?
“Google Business Profile” refers to a suite of online tools that help your business be seen online. In fact, you’re probably already familiar with the Business Profile—it’s the information you see when you search Google for a local business or service.
The Business Profile features everything your customers need to know about your business, including:
- Customer reviews and feedback.
- Your business hours and contact information.
- Any promotions or featured offers you want to share.
- Your business’s location, including convenient directions via Google Maps.
And so much more—it even includes social posting so that you can boost your local SEO!
The Benefit of Using Google Business Profile
Gone are the days of phone books and classified ads. If a customer needs something, they’ll likely turn to the internet to find it! Your business’s digital presence is only as solid as the information posted online. It’s crucial to ensure you have the correct hours, location, phone number, and all other relevant information about your business listed online. After all, if they can’t find you—they’ll find your competition instead!
Customers increasingly look to the internet for information about businesses, including customer feedback. In fact, approximately 85% of customers read online reviews when deciding which business to go with. With Google My Business, it’s easy to respond to customer feedback so you can show potential customers how you like to do business.
New Features & Tools
Small businesses have faced many unique challenges over the past year, and Google developed some new features and tools as a result, including:
- Posting health and safety guidelines, such as restrictions or practices
- Highlighting new methods of service, such as take-out only, curbside pickup, or delivery options
Google is also testing out new reporting features, such as seeing when customers call you via your search results.
At BKXX Enterprises, we know how important it is for small businesses to have an online presence. Setting up a GBP account is free but maintaining it takes a lot of work—and we’re here to help! Visit our website to learn more about our digital marketing solutions, including managing and optimizing your Google Business Profile.
