In today’s competitive market, having a strong online presence is essential for attracting customers. Google Business (formerly known as Google My Business) is one of the most powerful tools for connecting with potential clients, especially in the UK, where most people turn to Google to find local services and businesses. Here’s how to make the most of Google Business to get more work and grow your business.
1. Create and Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Start by creating a Google Business profile or claiming your existing one. Ensure your business information is accurate and up to date, including:
- Business Name: Make sure it matches the name on your website and signage.
- Address: Add your full UK address for local SEO. If you operate from home, you can hide your address and show a service area instead.
- Phone Number: Use a local number to build trust.
- Website: Link to your website to drive traffic.
- Opening Hours: Keep these accurate to avoid frustrating customers.
A well-filled profile makes your business look professional and reliable.
2. Leverage Reviews to Build Credibility
Customer reviews play a huge role in attracting new clients. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your Google Business profile. Respond to all reviews—both positive and negative—to show you value feedback and are committed to providing excellent service.
Pro tip: Adding “thank you” responses to positive reviews and professionally handling complaints can leave a lasting impression.
3. Add Photos and Videos
Visual content makes your profile more appealing. Include high-quality images of:
- Your products or services.
- Your premises or workspace.
- Completed projects or happy customers (with permission).
Videos showcasing your services or a behind-the-scenes look can also engage potential clients.
4. Use Google Posts to Share Updates
Google Business lets you create posts to share updates, promotions, or events. Use this feature to:
- Highlight special offers or discounts.
- Announce new services or products.
- Share blog links or helpful tips relevant to your industry.
These posts appear in your business profile, keeping your audience informed and engaged.
5. Enable Messaging
The messaging feature allows customers to contact you directly via your profile. Make sure to enable this feature and respond promptly to enquiries. Quick communication can make the difference between gaining or losing a client.
6. Optimise for Local SEO
Google Business is crucial for local search engine optimisation. Use these tips to maximise your local reach:
- Include location-specific keywords in your profile description (e.g., “plumber in Bristol” or “florist in Edinburgh”).
- Add a detailed business category.
- Regularly update your profile with new photos, posts, or services.
7. Track Performance with Insights
Google Business provides analytics tools to track how people interact with your profile. You can see:
- How many people viewed your profile.
- How often your profile appeared in searches.
- What actions visitors took, such as calling your business or visiting your website.
Use these insights to refine your strategy and understand what’s working.
Final Thoughts
Google Business is a free, powerful tool that can help you attract more work and grow your business. By optimising your profile, engaging with customers, and regularly updating your content, you can stand out in local searches and build trust with potential clients. Whether you’re a tradesperson in Manchester, a café owner in London, or a freelance photographer in Glasgow, Google Business can be the key to unlocking more opportunities.
So, take the time to polish your profile and let Google work for you!