Contrary to popular belief, your Google Business Profile is not a “set it and forget it” proposition.
In today’s ever-changing digital landscape, establishing and maintaining a strong online presence for your business is vital. Your Google Business Profile (GBP) holds immense value when it comes to engaging with your audience, attracting new prospects, and showing up prominently in Google’s local search results.
In short, your GBP should not be stagnant. Populating and updating your profile should be a top priority.
Here’s why:
Enhancing Visibility in Local Search
Google values current and complete business information. By regularly updating your GBP, you signal to Google that you are an active and relevant search result for consumers. Not only will this boost your chances of appearing in local search results when potential customers are looking for products or services in your area, but a well-populated profile with accurate information helps you stand out from “the other guys.”
Engaging with Your Audience
By keeping your Google Business Profile current, you enable your audience to access accurate and relevant information about your business. This includes the basics, of course, such as address, phone number, website, and customer reviews. But regularly updating your profile with other valuable content like photos, posts, and special offers goes a step further to keep your audience engaged and interested in your brand.
Engaging with your audience through the GBP fosters a sense of trust and loyalty, ultimately leading to increased conversions and customer satisfaction.
Google also rewards users who encourage interactions with their GBP. How? By displaying you higher in the business listings when people search for your services. Search results fluctuate. Interactions with your profile help you rise to the top of the list. And that’s exactly where you want to be.
Keeping Hours Orderly
One simple, but widely overlooked aspect of maintaining an informative Google Business Profile is ensuring your business’s operating hours and holiday hours are up to date. This sliver of information is perhaps one of the biggest reasons customers turn to your GBP in the first place, particularly during holidays or special occasions. Neglecting to update this information may result in missed opportunities and new revenue streams. At worst, aggravated customers encountering incorrect details might never, ever return – and instead, spread the word of their frustration.
Preventing Fraudulent Ownership Requests
A neglected or incomplete Google Business Profile can make you vulnerable to fraudulent ownership requests. These requests, frequently from scammers, can lead to unauthorized changes, incorrect information, or even a loss of control over your profile.
By actively managing and regularly updating your GBP, you send a clear signal to Google that you are the legitimate owner. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of fraudulent ownership attempts and ensures that you retain control over your online presence.
Maintaining and populating your Google Business Profile is essential if you hope to positively engage with your audience and continue to foster an organized, reputable, and lucrative online presence. Questions about your GBP? IMPACT Marketing can steer you in the right direction with this and any of your digital marketing needs.
