How Do I Optimize My Google Business Profile for SEO?
I’ve been helping small businesses with their local SEO for over 15 years, and I’ll tell you straight up: your Google Business Profile is the most powerful local visibility tool you have. Here’s exactly what to do:
Complete every single field
Google rewards profiles that are 100% complete:
- Use your exact business name (don’t add keywords)
- Verify your address and phone number are correct
- Link to your website homepage (or location page)
- Set precise business hours including holidays
Choose the right categories
Your primary category is critical, it tells Google what you do. Add relevant secondary categories for other services. This directly impacts when your business appears in searches.
Write a description that sells
Keep it under 750 characters. Focus on what you do, who you serve, and what makes you different. Work in your key service terms naturally.
Photos sell your business
Upload at least 10 high quality images showing:
- Your storefront
- Inside your business
- Your team in action
- Products or services
Businesses with 10+ photos get 42% more directions requests than competitors with fewer images.
Reviews are pure gold
Respond to EVERY review within 24 hours. For negative reviews, acknowledge the concern and move the conversation offline quickly. Check how your competitors handle reviews to spot opportunities.
Use Google Posts weekly
Share offers, news, and updates regularly. My research shows consistent posting can improve visibility.
Keep NAP consistent everywhere
Your Name, Address, Phone must match exactly across your:
- Website
- Social profiles
- Directories
- Google Business Profile
Use my citation checker to find inconsistencies fast.
Turn on messaging
The faster you respond to customer messages, the better your conversion rate. Make sure someone monitors incoming messages daily.
Monitor performance regularly
Don’t optimize blindly, track your results. Learn how to measure your Maps performance to see what’s working.
Need a quick check of your current profile? Run it through my GBP optimization checker to find gaps.
I’ve helped businesses across the country boost their local visibility, from Chicago to Scranton. If you need help getting this done right, check out my local SEO services.