Choose the most accurate primary category, use your real business name, complete every field, add services and real photos, keep hours current, post weekly and track clicks to your website.
Key takeaways
- Your primary category and real business name matter most.
- Complete every field, add services and write a clear 750-character description.
- Real photos, regular posts and accurate holiday hours build trust.
- Track profile clicks with UTM parameters so you can measure results.
For many local businesses, the Google Business Profile gets more views than the website. It is where customers see your hours, photos, reviews and phone number, and decide whether to call. Here are ten quick fixes that help it work harder.
1. Choose the most accurate primary category
Your primary category is one of the strongest signals for which searches you appear in. Pick the most specific one that matches your main service, then add relevant secondary categories.
2. Use your real business name only
Adding keywords or city names to your business name breaks Google’s guidelines and can lead to suspension. Use the name customers see on your sign and website.
3. Complete every field
Hours, phone, website, service areas and attributes (such as “wheelchair accessible” or “online appointments”) all help customers and help Google match you to searches.
4. Write a clear description
You have up to 750 characters. Explain what you do, who you serve and where, in plain language. Skip links, promotions and all-caps.
5. Add your services or products
List each main service with a short description. It helps customers understand your offer at a glance and gives Google more detail to work with.
6. Upload real, recent photos
Show your storefront, team, work and vehicles. Real photos build trust far better than stock images. Add new ones regularly.
7. Set holiday and special hours
Nothing loses a customer faster than showing up to a closed door. Update special hours before every holiday.
8. Add a booking or appointment link
If customers can book online, add the link so they can act straight from Google.
9. Post updates regularly
Use posts for offers, events, seasonal tips and news. Regular posts keep your profile fresh and give customers another reason to choose you.
10. Track the clicks to your website
Add UTM tracking parameters to your website link so Google Analytics shows exactly how many visitors come from your profile. Also check the profile’s performance insights for calls, direction requests and website clicks.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I post on my Google Business Profile?
About once a week is a good rhythm for most small businesses. Consistency matters more than volume.
Does adding keywords to my business name help?
It goes against Google’s guidelines and can get your profile suspended. Put keywords in your description, services and posts instead.