Your business’s online presence is often the first—and sometimes only—interaction customers have with your brand. What first impression do YOU want to make? One of the most powerful (and free!) tools to manage that presence is a Google My Business (GMB) page, now called Google Business Profile. But like any tool, its impact depends on how well you use it. Let’s explore the good, the bad, and how you can ensure your GMB profile works for you.
The Good: Why You Need a Google Business Profile
🌟 Visibility on Google Search and Maps
When someone searches for your business or relevant services near them, a GMB listing increases your chances of appearing in the local 3-pack—those top three results shown with a map. This puts your business front and center, literally.
📞 Easy Customer Interaction
From calling your business to reading reviews or checking hours, potential customers can interact with your business directly through your listing. It becomes a mini-website right on Google.
💬 Review Management
GMB lets you manage and respond to Google Reviews—critical for building trust. A well-managed review section shows customers that you care.
📈 Insights and Analytics
You can track:
- How many people searched for your business
- What keywords they used
- Where they viewed your listing (Search or Maps)
- What actions they took (calls, website visits, direction requests)
These insights help guide your marketing strategies.
The Bad: Common Pitfalls That Hurt Your Listing
❌ Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Wrong hours, outdated addresses, or incorrect categories confuse customers and reduce your credibility. Google also de-prioritizes inconsistent listings.
💤 Neglecting Updates
If you forget to update seasonal hours, special promotions, or COVID-related notices, it gives the impression that your business isn’t active or attentive.
🛑 Ignoring Reviews
Whether they’re glowing or critical, ignoring reviews is a red flag. Responding politely and constructively shows transparency and professionalism.
📷 Low-Quality or No Photos
Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites. A listing without visuals looks uninviting and unprofessional.
The How-To: Create and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Step 1: Visit google.com/business
Click “Manage Now” and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2: Enter Your Business Name
If it doesn’t exist yet, you’ll be prompted to create a new profile.
Step 3: Choose the Right Category
This is important for visibility. Be specific—“Hair Salon” instead of “Beauty.”
Step 4: Add Location and Service Areas
Provide your address if you have a physical location. If not, you can set service areas.
Step 5: Add Contact Info
Include your phone number, website, and email address if applicable.
Step 6: Verification
Google will usually mail you a postcard with a code to verify your business. Sometimes, email or phone verification is available.
Step 7: Optimize Your Profile
- Upload high-quality photos (interior, exterior, staff, products)
- Add your business hours, including holidays
- Enable messaging so customers can reach you
- Write a keyword-rich business description
- Post regular updates (events, promotions, blogs)
Step 8: Maintain It
Treat your profile like a living digital storefront—update it, respond to reviews, and post regularly to stay visible and credible.
A Google Business Profile is more than just a listing—it’s a key part of your marketing toolkit. The good? It brings visibility, trust, and new customers. The bad? Neglecting it can damage your reputation. The solution? Set it up with care, keep it updated, and treat it like the asset it is.
Ready to make Google work overtime for your business? The first step is just a click away by reaching out to our award-winning team at Fable Heart Media and booking you complimentary consultation. We’ve helped small-to-medium sized businesses like yours maximize online potential and ROI, translating to more time you spend with the customer and ensuring every interaction meets and exceeds expectations. Let’s get started today on your journey to stronger first impressions that are worthy of your brand mission and background.
