A customer searching for “café near me”, “Alanya dental clinic” or “best hairdresser” often decides by looking at the business card on Google Maps, without ever visiting a website. The tool behind that card is Google Business Profile, and it is free. Used well, it is one of the fastest-returning digital channels for local businesses.
Fill in your profile completely
Google favours businesses whose information is complete and consistent. Fill in every field: business name, address, phone, opening hours, website and category. Choose your primary category as accurately as possible, and use additional categories for the other services you offer. Avoid tactics that break the rules, such as adding keywords to your business name; they can get your profile suspended.
Keep your details identical everywhere
Your address and phone number should be written exactly the same on your website, your social media accounts and food delivery or booking platforms. Different spellings make it harder for Google to verify your business.
Add photos regularly
Up-to-date photos of your exterior, interior, products and team make your card look more trustworthy. Adding new photos every few months also shows that your profile is active. Choose a logo and cover image that match your brand identity.
Ask for reviews and reply to them
The number of reviews and your rating are among the strongest signals in local ranking. Don’t hesitate to ask happy customers for a review; a QR code on the table or the receipt makes it easy. Reply to every review, especially negative ones, politely and with a solution. Your replies are written not only for the reviewer but for everyone who looks at your card.
Use posts and products
You can share offers, events and news on your profile, and list your products or services with prices. A short post once a week is an easy way to keep your profile alive.
Back it up with your website and ads
A business profile is powerful on its own, but it works much better together with a fast, mobile-friendly website. In competitive sectors you can also gain extra visibility on Maps and in search with Google Ads’ local ad options.
Get in touch to set up your profile or review your current one; let’s work out together where you should start.