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Stand out locally with a Google Business Profile that works. Tips to build trust, rank higher, and bring in more customers

If you run a local business, having a Google Profile (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful ways to get found online. When potential customers search for services or products you offer, your GBP can appear right on Google Maps and at the top of search results—before any website listings. It’s like having a mini website built directly into Google’s search engine, showcasing your business name, hours, contact info, reviews, and more in one quick snapshot. It’s usually the first thing a customer sees before your website.

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A strong Google Business Profile helps build trust and credibility with customers. When people see accurate information, positive reviews, and up-to-date photos, they’re far more likely to contact or visit your business. On the flip side, if your profile is incomplete or outdated, potential customers might skip right past you and choose a competitor who looks more professional and reliable. That first impression matters—your GBP is often where people will interact with your brand.

Keeping your profile fully optimized is essential to make it stand out. That means verifying your business, choosing the right categories, adding a compelling business description, uploading high-quality photos, and regularly posting updates. Most importantly, encourage happy customers to leave reviews—and be sure to respond to them. Google loves active profiles, and so do customers. The more complete and engaging your GBP is, the better your chances of ranking higher in local search results.

In today’s mobile-first world, where most people search on their phones, your Google Business Profile can drive more traffic, leads, and sales. It’s a free tool but often underused or poorly managed. Whether you have a physical location or serve customers in a specific area, investing a little time into your GBP can greatly impact your local visibility and reputation.

If you’re not sure how your business is showing up online, I offer a free online health audit that shows exactly what’s working and what’s costing you customers.