Google My Business Optimization Checklist

Optimizing your Google Business Profile is a critical aspect of search engine optimization. Not only does it increase a business’s visibility, but it also improves ranking. Typically, Google uses three factors to determine local rankings: distance, relevance, and prominence.


That’s why businesses closest to the search user don’t consistently rank highest. This is because Google algorithms are designed to prioritize a company with a well-optimized Business Profile. 


Therefore, if a business is located far off but adequately answers the user’s query, it will rank better than its competitors. So, if Google My Business Optimization hasn’t been on your mind, it’s a good time to start. 


Here’s how to go about it:

What is Google My Business Optimization?

It’s the process of creating Google Business Profiles and optimizing them for local search. 


Beyond including the business name, address, contact, and website, the business may describe its products and services. 


Google My Business optimization is essential because it:


Boosts Local Ranking

Google algorithm changes have left businesses fighting to appear in the top three spots on the first page. Unfortunately, only three spots are available for local businesses to appear on the first page, not seven anymore. 


And, although second and third Google pages attract traffic, only 0.78% of traffic clicks on the pages. As such, optimizing Google My Business profile for local searches is an excellent way to help a business appear in the first three spots.


Increase Engagement

Customers have become overly reliant on the internet to find products and services. Information in search results pages often answers their questions without clicking on the website, leading to zero-click searches. 


If your Google Business profile is optimized to answer all the user’s questions without visiting the website, you’ll more likely have greater engagement.


Increase Conversion

The standard Google Business Profile might be less effective at acquiring customers. It will only provide regular details like the business name, location, and a few reviews about the business. 


However, when optimized for search, a user is more likely to discover your business through keyword searches. Such local searches will likely convert to high-quality leads who will become customers.


How to Optimize Google My Business Profile

Now that you understand the benefits of optimizing your Google Business Profile, it’s time to discuss how. 


Here’s a checklist to guide you:


Determine if You’re Eligible for Listing

Since not all businesses are eligible for Google My Business listing, you want to check if yours qualifies before listing. For example, for-sale or rental properties like vacant apartments, vacation homes, or leasing offices aren’t eligible for a Business Profile.


Claim Your Listing

If your business already has a local address and a Google Local Page, it has probably been listed; you only need to claim it by:


  • Looking for the business name on Google;
  • Finding out if you’re the business owner;
  • Claiming your Google My Business listing;
  • If it doesn’t appear, sign in with a Google account to list it.


These steps make a business more discoverable for local and mobile searches on Google Maps.


Create Google My Business Account

The next step is creating a Google My Business account to optimize your business profile. You make one by connecting your Google Business Profile with your Google My Business account.


Fill in all the Sections

A complete Google Business Profile helps Google rank your business high in the search results while allowing the customers to take more actions. 


Here are the most important sections you must complete:


  • The name: This is the name on your website or storefront. It would help if you avoided including marketing taglines, special characters, location keywords, or other unnecessary information along with the business name.
  • Address: The address must be identical to what is provided on the website, Google My Business listing, social media pages, and other directory listings.
  • Phone number: Provide an available phone number, not a toll-free or call tracking number. Google finds it challenging to match such numbers with addresses, affecting ranking negatively.
  • Operating hours: Include the operating hours and clarify if your business is open during holidays. Such information makes your customers confident about visiting the company.


Other sections like the category, products and services, websites, and reviews require more detailed information, as we’ll discuss later in the article.


Optimize the ‘From the Business’ Description

Besides the brief description below the business name, you must provide more detailed information about the business. This section appears in the lower profile section, under the reviews section. 


For proper optimization:


  • Use 750 characters with the most helpful information about the company’s products and services appearing in the first 250 characters;
  • Optimize it with keywords the customer is likely to use to find you;
  • Avoid misleading information about the business;
  • Avoid HTML code or hyperlinks;
  • Don’t include promotional aspects like prices or an ongoing sale, e.g., 50% off;
  • Avoid repeating information already seen in other sections of the profile; rather, talk about what sets you apart from your competitors.


Select a Suitable Category

Choose a category that defines your business best. This is relevant because customers hardly find out about a business through direct searches; instead, they use discovery searches. 


In fact, studies show a majority of Business Profile Views come from discovery searches. 


This means the customer looked for a service, product, or categorical term and found out about your business. Once you choose a category, Google provides category-specific features to make the business profile more attractive. 


When optimizing your Google Business Profile using categories, ensure you:


  • Choose specific terms: For example, if you’re a web design company, choose Web Design, not just design. Google has over 3000 categories, so you’re sure to find one that fits your business
  • Choose categories matching your business, products, and services: The idea is to enable Google to connect you with potential customers. Therefore, you must choose categories matching what you’re offering
  • Choose secondary categories: Although the primary category has more impact on your visibility, it’s essential to add a secondary category, especially if your business is in a less competitive industry


Optimize Your Business Location

A business’ location has a significant impact on local SEO rankings and visibility. Therefore, you want to include clear information about your business location. 


Include the address and directions to the premises. If you’re an online-based business, you can create a Google Business Profile and leave the address part blank.


Add Photos

Google My Business page allows you to showcase your products, premises, and staff by adding photos. In addition, Google’s advanced ranking features now use image recognition technology when ranking websites for local searches. 


Photos also show that your page is active, especially when added regularly.


Another reason to add photos to Google My Business page is that they increase engagement. Studies show customers are more likely to ask for directions to the business if its profile has photos. You can add different types of images, including a cover photo, profile photo, and business logo. 


Other handy tips to help you when adding pictures include:


  • Add high-quality images;
  • Avoid photos with special effects or branding, and stock photos;
  • Use a cover photo that represents the brand ;
  • Add a new photo every week;
  • Geo-tag the images to highlight the brand’s dominance in the area;
  • Add videos related to your brand.


Publish Posts

Google My Business profile has an updates section where you can publish posts. In addition, you use it to announce offers, events, products on sale, offers, and other features that attract potential customers. 


Remember, customers, tend to have a high search intent on search engines than on other platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Therefore, they’re more likely to engage with published Google My Business profile posts. 


In addition, publishing posts help optimize Google My Business by:


  • Increasing your chances of getting high-quality leads;
  • Increases ranking;
  • Increasing the number of actions customers can take after finding your profile;
  • Sharing helpful information about the business to customers;
  • Showing off your brand to Google and potential customers.


Some tips to help publish the posts:


  • Use different types of updates: You can post offers (promotions), products (in case there’s a sale), or new products;
  • Publish posts regularly: It shows Google you’re actively using your profile and helps you change posts with an expiry date. E.g., a seven-day sale;
  • Include a Call to Action: It would help to add links to relevant products, services, or pages to help convert users to customers.


Activate the Messaging Feature

With a messaging feature, potential customers can send text messages directly from the Google Business Profile. In addition, it makes it easy to respond to their questions and send photos to them. 


Since Google displays your average response time, it’s an opportunity to distinguish yourself from your competitors. Note that Google can also deactivate the chat feature on your profile if you don’t reply within 24 hours.


Add Reviews

Reviews leave a lasting impression on potential customers, and Google uses them to rank a website. As a result, the first three results that appear on SERPs have high ratings and multiple reviews. As such, you must actively pursue your customers to write reviews about your business. 


You can reach out by phone or email and include a link to your Business Listing requesting a review. However, if your business has few clients (e.g., a law or accounting firm), create a manual template you can send each customer.


Ensure the link opens easily and customers can add reviews quickly. Be sure to respond to the reviews, too, as they are critical in optimizing your Business profile and encouraging other customers to review your services or products.


Answer Questions

Google My Business displays questions customers have asked and the answers. Unlike reviews directed to the business, anyone can answer the questions in this section. The company or other customers can respond based on their experience with the product to service. 


To optimize this section:


  • Answer the questions: It’s best if you answer the questions to provide the most suitable answer and control the conversation;
  • Incorporate keywords in the answers: You can optimize the questions and answers using keywords to increase your chances of appearing in the search results;
  • Create an alert system: It makes it easy to know when a user asks a question so that you can answer as soon as possible.


So What Does Google My Business Optimization Entail?

In a nutshell, Google My Business optimization involves optimizing a business for local search. 


It begins with creating a Google My Business account, filling in essential information (business name, location, address, etc.), selecting a category, optimizing a description, and more. 


This detailed checklist should help you check off most, if not all, the actions you hadn’t performed when optimizing your page.

By hello 06 Sep, 2023
Don't settle for less when it comes to your website's search engine optimization. Find your perfect match with the best SEO company and achieve unparalleled success.
By hello 22 Aug, 2023
Maximize your online potential without breaking the bank! Our affordable SEO services for small businesses will help you dominate search engine rankings.
By hello 28 Jul, 2023
Dominate the HVAC industry with our proven SEO techniques. Supercharge your business growth today and stay ahead of the competition.
By hello 28 Jul, 2023
Gain valuable customer insights and learn how to effectively attract your target market with our expert tips and strategies.
By 61ef930d3a3790d087f216aa 27 Jun, 2023
Unlock the new potential for your medical spa with our SEO strategy. Get the most out of your website and drive more customers through your doors.
By hello 15 Jun, 2023
Increase your digital presence with professional SEO services from our experienced team. Get higher rankings and better visibility on search engines today!
By hello 07 Jun, 2023
Grow your small business and spread the news with press release marketing! Learn how to write compelling press releases and gain maximum exposure for your business.
By hello 02 Jun, 2023
Discover how to reach more potential patients with this definitive guide to chiropractor SEO. Learn the best tactics to maximize your online presence and get ahead of the competition.
By hello 02 Jun, 2023
Small business owners: Discover why branding is essential for success! Learn how to build a powerful brand and create a lasting impression on customers.
By hello 02 Jun, 2023
Learn the secrets to SEO success with our comprehensive Small Business SEO Guide. Get the actionable tips and tricks you need to get your business found online!
By hello 26 May, 2023
Discover the ins and outs of small business marketing with our comprehensive guide. Learn the best tips and strategies to help your business grow today!
By 61ef930d3a3790d087f216aa 24 May, 2023
Discover how to use SEO to reach more clients and increase your hair salon's visibility. Learn the best techniques and tips to boost your online presence and bring in more business.
By hello 24 May, 2023
Know how to budget marketing costs for your small business without breaking the bank? Get expert advice on how to maximize your marketing efforts and save money.
By hello 24 May, 2023
Maximize your small business ROI with these proven marketing goals! Learn how to create effective goals that work for your business and drive results.
By hello 13 Mar, 2023
Discover the top 8 marketing methods to help fence installers grow their business. Find out how to attract more customers and increase your sales today!
By hello 10 Mar, 2023
Don't let big businesses intimidate you! Learn the 26 most effective marketing strategies that will give you the edge and help your business thrive.
By hello 06 Mar, 2023
Optimizing your Google Business Profile is a critical aspect of search engine optimization. Not only does it increase a business’s visibility, but it also improves ranking. Typically, Google uses three factors to determine local rankings: distance, relevance, and prominence . That’s why businesses closest to the search user don’t consistently rank highest. This is because Google algorithms are designed to prioritize a company with a well-optimized Business Profile. Therefore, if a business is located far off but adequately answers the user’s query, it will rank better than its competitors. So, if Google My Business Optimization hasn’t been on your mind, it’s a good time to start. Here’s how to go about it:
By hello 02 Mar, 2023
Grow your business with an experienced SEO expert. Learn how to turn strategies into profits and get the most out of your online presence.
By hello 20 Feb, 2023
Don't let your inbound calls go to waste. Follow this 5-step checklist to dramatically improve your sales and get the most from every call. Discover the 5 simple steps to dramatically improve your inbound call sales. Get our free New Caller Checklist and start boosting your results today!
By hello 20 Feb, 2023
Are you a small business owner in the carpet cleaning industry looking to increase your visibility online? Search engine optimization (SEO) can help you show up in organic search results and get more clicks, bringing in more business and helping you grow. Learn the best practices for SEO for carpet cleaning companies in the article below.
By hello 17 Feb, 2023
Increase your visibility and reach more customers - find out why digital marketing is essential for small businesses to stay competitive in today's market.
By hello 16 Feb, 2023
Optimizing your search engine ranking isn't new, but that doesn't mean every business is aware of the best SEO practices . If you're new to the ever-changing world of SEO, it's essential to stay on top of things and learn immediately, especially if you're a service-based business. You may be curious whether SEO applies to you or your business. Consider this, suppose you want to increase website traffic and attract more clients. If you want more clients and website traffic, the answer is yes. SEO is important and applies to you. It may seem intimidating, but you have to start somewhere, and that somewhere is right here. Here's everything you must learn about SEO for service-based businesses.
By hello 15 Feb, 2023
SEO for electrical companies can be a powerful and efficient way of expanding business opportunities and finding new customers, but SEO works a little differently for this industry than it does some others. Here’s what you should know about optimizing your performance on search engines. Company vs. Electrician Before we get into discussing SEO, we need to clarify things. As people within the industry know, an electrical company is not the same as an electrician. This is a critical point for understanding how SEO works for it. An electric company is a business that primarily engages in the production, sale, and distribution of electricity to customers within a particular grid or area. Electric companies may be public utilities, but they can also be separate organizations that sell to utilities. A few electric companies have specialty focuses, such as managing on-site power generators with no grid connections. Electricians are individuals who typically design, install, and repair electrical systems. Many electricians are independent contractors who work for electric companies and utilities, while others are full-time employees. Electricians who want to advertise their services use different techniques than electrical companies, and this guide does not cover electricians.
By hello 14 Feb, 2023
In this digital age, every restaurant needs an effective SEO strategy. Did you know that almost half (46%) of all Google searches are seeking local information? Nearly three out of four Google users searching for local businesses end up calling or visiting a store within five miles. A good restaurant SEO strategy will drive more foot traffic to your eatery and help you get more delivery orders (if you offer that option). Here are nine essential SEO strategies for restaurants.
By hello 09 Feb, 2023
Did you know that 93% of purchases start with a search on an engine like Google, Bing, or Yahoo? A solid SEO strategy is crucial if you want to grow your business, whether you own a store with a physical location, a service business (such as HVAC repair services ), or an online business. Here Are 10 Ways Search Engine Optimization Helps You Grow Your Business
By hello 08 Oct, 2022
SSL certificates play a crucial role in safeguarding data, building user trust, and improving search engine rankings for websites. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the importance of SSL certificates and how to select the right type and validation level for your website, ensuring that your visitors can confidently engage with your content. The Significance of SSL Certificates SSL certificates are the backbone of online security, providing a secure connection between a web server and a client, such as a web browser, to ensure the confidentiality of sensitive information transmitted between them. From protecting customer data during online transactions to boosting search engine rankings, SSL certificates play a vital role in enhancing the credibility and trustworthiness of a website. In this section, we will delve into the significance of SSL certificates, examining their impact on data security, user trust, and search engine rankings. Data Security SSL certificates employ encryption algorithms to scramble data while in transit, preventing malicious actors from accessing the information as it is transmitted over the encrypted connection. This secure connection is essential for safeguarding sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, and login credentials, from potential hackers during the SSL encrypted session. It is recommended that SSL certificates have a lifespan of no more than 27 months to ensure optimal security. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, ensuring that your website employs a robust SSL certificate is crucial for maintaining data integrity and protecting your customers’ data. By choosing the right SSL certificate and keeping it up to date, you can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and other security incidents. User Trust SSL certificates not only provide security but also play a crucial role in building user trust. When users visit a website with a valid SSL certificate, they can feel confident that their data is secure and that the website is authentic and legitimate. For example, Organization Validated (OV) SSL certificates, which are recommended for checkout pages, require a rigorous validation process to verify the organization’s identity and legal existence. By choosing an appropriate SSL certificate for your website, you can instill trust in your visitors, resulting in increased engagement and conversions. Search Engine Ranking SSL certificates also positively influence search engine rankings, leading to better visibility and increased organic website traffic. Search engines like Google prioritize websites with SSL certificates, recognizing their commitment to security and user trust. By obtaining an SSL certificate for your website, you can improve your search engine ranking position and draw more users to your site, ultimately enhancing your online presence and reputation. Types of SSL Certificates SSL certificates come in various types, each tailored to meet different website requirements. Understanding the differences between single-domain, wildcard, and multi-domain SSL certificates can help you choose the most suitable certificate for your website’s needs. In this section, we will explore the different types of SSL certificates and their respective use cases, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the right certificate for your website. Single Domain SSL Certificate A Single Domain SSL Certificate provides security for one specific domain, ensuring encrypted communication for that domain only. This type of certificate is an economical solution that is simple to install and suitable for websites with just one domain. However, Single Domain SSL certificates do not offer encryption for multiple domains or the same degree of trust as other SSL certificate types. For websites with a single domain, this certificate is an effective and affordable way to ensure data security. Wildcard SSL Certificate Wildcard SSL certificates protect a base domain and its unlimited sub-domains, offering a cost-effective solution for websites with multiple sub-domains. By consolidating security for all sub-domains under a single certificate, Wildcard SSL certificates simplify the management and maintenance of website security, making them an attractive option for website owners with numerous sub-domains. However, it is important to note that Wildcard SSL certificates are generally more expensive than single domain certificates, and not all Certificate Authorities offer support for them. Multi-Domain SSL Certificate Multi-Domain SSL certificates: Secure multiple domains and sub-domains under a single certificate Simplify certificate management and reduce the need for multiple certificates Also known as Unified Communications Certificates (UCC) Initially designed to secure Microsoft Exchange and Live Communications servers A practical solution for any website owner looking to secure multiple domain names with a single certificate With support for sub-domains included by default, Multi-Domain SSL certificates offer a versatile and streamlined solution for managing the security of multiple domains and sub-domains. Validation Levels of SSL Certificates SSL certificates offer different validation levels, each providing a varying degree of security and assurance. These validation levels include extended validation (EV), organization validation (OV), and domain validation (DV). Understanding the distinctions between these validation levels can help you select the most appropriate SSL certificate for your website’s needs. In this section, we will examine the various validation levels of SSL certificates and discuss their respective security assurances and use cases. Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate EV SSL certificates offer the highest level of security and trust, displaying the business name and country in the browser address bar, and providing a visual indicator of the website’s authenticity and security. This level of assurance is ideal for high-profile websites that handle sensitive information and require the utmost trust from their users. By obtaining an EV SSL certificate, you can demonstrate your commitment to security and gain the trust of your website visitors, resulting in increased engagement and conversions. Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificate OV SSL certificates: Require substantial validation and display owner information Provide a balance between security and affordability Are suitable for websites that require a moderate level of security while keeping costs in check. The validation process for OV SSL certificates includes verifying the organization’s identity and legal existence, ensuring a higher level of trust than domain validated certificates. By opting for an OV SSL certificate, you can provide your users with a secure browsing experience without breaking the bank. Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificate Domain Validated (DV) SSL certificates offer basic encryption and are suitable for non-transactional websites, such as blogs, with a quick and inexpensive domain validation process. These domain validation SSL certificates only require the website owner to demonstrate domain ownership, either through email or phone verification. While the address bar only displays HTTPS and a padlock, with no business name indicated, DV SSL certificates still provide a fundamental level of encryption for websites that do not handle sensitive information. For non-transactional websites, DV SSL certificates are a cost-effective option that ensures basic security. Identifying SSL-Protected Websites It is essential to know how to identify SSL-protected websites to ensure the security of your online interactions. In this section, we will discuss the indicators that signify a website is secured by SSL, such as HTTPS in the URL, a padlock icon in the address bar, and a valid certificate. By recognizing these indicators, you can confidently browse the web, knowing that your sensitive information is protected. HTTPS in URL Websites with SSL encryption display “https://“ in the URL, indicating a secure connection. The “s” in “https://“ stands for “secure” and signifies that the website has an SSL certificate installed to protect the data transmitted between the server and the client. By checking for “https://“ in the URL, you can ensure that the website you are visiting is utilizing a secure connection, safeguarding your sensitive information from potential cyber threats. Padlock Icon A padlock icon in the address bar signifies a secure website, indicating that it has an SSL certificate installed and is protecting the data transmitted between the server and the client. By clicking on the padlock icon, you can reveal certificate information and verify the authenticity and security of the website. This visual indicator serves as a reminder that the website takes your security seriously and is committed to protecting your data. Valid Certificate Checking the validity of an SSL certificate is essential, as expired certificates can compromise security and put your sensitive information at risk. A valid certificate is one that is currently active, has not expired, been revoked, or suspended, and is recognized as legitimate and trustworthy. To maintain the security of your online interactions, always verify the validity of the SSL certificate of the websites you visit. Obtaining an SSL Certificate To obtain an SSL certificate, you need to: Choose a reputable Certificate Authority (CA) Configure the certificate on your server The CA will verify your identity and issue a digital certificate to authenticate the data sent to the web server, ensuring a secure connection between the server and the client. In this section, we will discuss the steps involved in obtaining an SSL certificate, from choosing a CA to configuring the certificate on your server. Choosing a Certificate Authority (CA) Selecting a CA is an important step in obtaining an SSL certificate, as this organization will verify your identity and issue the digital certificate for your website. When selecting a CA, consider the following factors: The type and validation level of the SSL certificate required The cost of the certificate The reputation of the CA The customer support available By choosing a reputable CA that offers the required SSL certificate type and level of validation, you can ensure the security and authenticity of your website. Configuring SSL on Server Properly configuring the SSL certificate on your server is crucial for ensuring a secure connection between the server and the client. The process for configuring an SSL certificate on your server is contingent upon the type of server you are utilizing. Generally, you must generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) and submit it to the Certificate Authority (CA) of your selection. After the CA has verified your identity, they will issue the certificate and provide you with instructions for installing it on your server. By following these steps, you can establish a secure connection between your website and your users, protecting their sensitive information. SSL vs. TLS: Understanding the Difference SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, and TLS, or Transport Layer Security, are related security protocols that facilitate a secure connection for data transfer over the Internet. However, there are some key differences between the two. TLS is the modernized and more secure iteration of SSL, offering superior security compared to its predecessor. The SSL protocol has experienced several updates and enhancements over time to address vulnerabilities found in SSL, making TLS the recommended protocol for improved security. Understanding the distinctions between SSL and TLS can help you make informed decisions when selecting security protocols for your website. Renewing and Managing SSL Certificates Regularly renewing and managing your SSL certificates is an integral part of maintaining the security of your website and avoiding potential cybersecurity risks. Keeping track of the expiration date, renewing your certificate in advance, and ensuring that it is correctly installed and configured on your website are crucial steps in managing your SSL certificate. By staying vigilant and proactive in managing your SSL certificates, you can provide a secure browsing experience for your users and protect your website from potential security threats.
By hello 24 Jun, 2021
Attract more leads and increase your ROI with our comprehensive roofer marketing guide. Get expert tips and strategies to help you stand out in the industry!

Unlock the Unlimited Potential of Your Business

Our professionals stop at nothing to provide excellent digital marketing solutions.

Share by: