In today’s digital-first world, having a strong online presence is essential for any local business that wants to attract more customers and grow. One of the most effective—and completely free—ways to get found on Google is by setting up and optimising a Google Business Profile. This powerful tool helps local businesses such as plumbers, cafés, salons, and service providers appear in the Google Maps “Local Pack”—the map section that appears at the top of Google’s search results when people nearby are looking for your services.
Your Google Business Profile (previously known as Google My Business) lets you manage how your business appears across Google Search and Maps. It displays key information such as your business name, phone number, address, opening hours, website, and customer reviews—all in one easy-to-find place. When someone searches for “best café near me” or “accountant in [your city],” a well-optimised profile helps your business appear at the top of those search results and attracts more local customers.
Here are some of the key benefits of having and optimising your Google Business Profile:
1. Boosts Your Visibility in Local Searches
Google favours businesses with a complete and regularly updated profile. When someone searches for “florist in Epsom” or “emergency cleaning service near me,” companies with well-maintained Google Business Profiles are far more likely to appear. That means more people in your area will find and contact you when they’re ready to buy.
2. Helps You Rank Higher in Google Maps and Search Results
An optimised profile increases your chances of appearing in Google’s “Local Pack” — the three business listings shown on the map in local searches. The Local Pack receives between 44–61% of all clicks for location-based searches, making it one of the most valuable spots for any local business to be featured.
3. Makes It Easy for Customers to Contact You
Your Google Business Profile shows your contact information, opening hours, website link, and location front and centre. Potential customers can call, message, or get directions with a single click. If you offer out-of-hours or emergency services, you can highlight that too—helping you capture more leads when customers need you most.
4. Builds Trust Through Customer Reviews
Online reviews are one of the biggest factors influencing buying decisions. Your Google Business Profile allows customers to leave reviews that help showcase your reliability and quality of service. Positive reviews build trust and make new customers more likely to choose you over a competitor.
5. Provides Valuable Business Insights
Google gives you access to detailed analytics about how people interact with your profile—such as how many viewed your listing, called your number, or requested directions. These insights help you understand your audience and identify where to focus your marketing efforts.
6. Lets You Post Updates, Offers, and Events
Local businesses can use their Google Business Profile to share updates, announce promotions, or highlight seasonal offers. Posting regularly keeps your profile active, engaging, and more appealing to both Google and potential customers.
7. Improves Your Local SEO
Google ranks businesses in local search results based on relevance, distance, and prominence. By ensuring your profile is accurate, consistent, and full of positive reviews, you can boost your local SEO and attract more high-quality leads from nearby customers.
8. Showcases Photos and Videos of Your Work
Adding high-quality photos and short videos helps customers see what makes your business unique. Whether it’s before-and-after photos of your work, your shopfront, or your team in action, visuals help build trust and encourage people to get in touch.
Get Help Setting Up and Optimising Your Google Business Profile
If you’re a local business owner looking to increase visibility, attract more customers, and rank higher on Google, having a well-optimised Google Business Profile is essential. Whether you need help setting up your profile, improving your rankings, or managing your local SEO strategy, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with Indigo Marmoset today and let’s make sure your business stands out in Google Search and Maps—so more local customers can find and choose you.
