The Local Online Marketing Guide

"Helping Your Business Thrive Online"

Get Found Online with Google Business Profile (GBP):

The Key to Local Search Results

As a small business owner/manager, attracting new customers likely tops your list of priorities. You likely rely on word-of-mouth and repeat business to drive appointments and grow. But what if you could get your business found directly in Google anytime someone searches for a place that offers the products or services your business offers?

That level of discoverability and visibility is exactly what a Google Business Profile (GBP) provides. Similar to your website, a GBP listing helps your business stand out prominently in Google search and maps results. For businesses that depend on local traffic, a Google Business Profile is essential.

What is a Google Business Profile (GBP)?

A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is essentially Google’s database of businesses. It's what powers the business listings you see show up in the map pack on the right side of Google search results. GBP acts as your business’s digital storefront on Google.

With a GBP, you can publish key details about your business like your address, phone number, photos, services, prices, hours, and more. This information appears directly on Google when users search for related keywords near your location.

For instance, say a potential customer searches for “couples massage downtown”. With an optimized GBP, your business's listing would appear prominently on the right side of results for that search.

The searcher can then easily see your hours, reviews, images, and location and quickly click to your website or map listing. This level of visibility and convenience is what makes GBP vital for your business.

Why Your Business Needs A GBP

Here are some of the key benefits a Google Business Profile provides specifically for local businesses:

- Increased visibility in local Google Searches - optimize to rank #1 for searches like “plumber near me”.

- Higher click-through rates by getting your business featured prominently in the map pack.

- Provides customers with key details like your hours, location, and reviews without needing to visit your website.

- Allows you to post real-time updates about specials, events, and new services.

- Improves your local SEO signals by consistently publishing your NAP and website across directories.

- Gives you insights into how customers find your business and interact with your listing.

- Generates phone calls, bookings, and walk-in traffic by getting discovered locally.

For businesses heavily reliant on local traffic and reputation, ranking highly on relevant searches with a robust GBP profile is essential both for driving new business and maintaining visibility.

Optimizing Your Business’s Google Business Profile

The key to maximizing the benefits of Google Business Profile is optimizing your GBP completely with relevant keywords, enticing photos, accurate business information, and engaging posts.

With a complete GBP profile, your business can rank #1 on searches like “spa packages Cambridge” or “facials near me” ahead of competitors.

Be sure to tailor keywords and information specifically to your services, location, and target customer needs. Highlight what makes your business unique. Feature real photos of your business, massage rooms, relaxation lounges, etc.

Post updates showcasing seasonal specials, staff spotlights, news about your business, and promotions to keep customers engaged. Respond to all Google reviews to build relationships.

An optimized GBP both serves customers’ needs for easily discovering your business on Google and enables you to stand out from other, similar businesses in the area. It’s the core of ranking well and being found locally online.

For any business that relies on local traffic and bookings, prioritizing your Google Business Profile should be at the top of your list. With a complete and optimized GBP profile, you can get your spa discovered online by more potential customers nearby searching for the spa experiences and services you offer.