Emma contacted me to ask about her Google Business Profile. I’d shared how important it is in our Business Skills for Celebrants Group. I’ve detailed the steps below. Once you’ve followed the steps and completed the process, share a link to yours in the comments section and let me know how simple you found the process.
Creating a Google Business Profile (GBP) is essential for local Celebrants looking to improve their online visibility and attract more customers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your Google Business Profile and why it’s beneficial.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Google Business Profile
Step 1: Sign in to Google My Business
- Go to the Google My Business website.
- Click on “Manage now.”
- Sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create one.
Step 2: Add Your Business
- Enter your business name.
- If your business name appears in the dropdown, select it. Otherwise, click “Add your business to Google.”
- Choose your business category. Be as specific as possible.
Step 3: Enter Your Location
- If you have a physical location that customers can visit, select “Yes” and enter your address.
- If you deliver goods and services to your customers, check the box for “I deliver goods and services to my customers.”
- If you don’t have a physical location but serve customers in a specific area, enter your service area.
Step 4: Add Contact Details
- Enter your phone number and website URL. These are optional but highly recommended for customer contact.
Step 5: Verify Your Business
- Google will need to verify your business. Choose your preferred verification method (postcard, phone, or email).
- Follow the instructions provided to complete the verification process.
Step 6: Optimize Your Profile
- Business Hours: Add your business hours.
- Business Description: Write a compelling description of your business.
- Photos: Add high-quality photos of your business, products, services, and team.
- Services or Products: List the services or products you offer.
- Attributes: Add attributes such as “Women-led,” “Wheelchair accessible,” etc.
Step 7: Keep Your Profile Updated
- Regularly update your business information, including hours of operation, special offers, and new products or services.
- Respond to customer reviews and questions promptly.
If you’re wondering why you’d want a Google Business Profile:
Increased Visibility: A GBP makes your business more visible on Google Search and Google Maps, helping potential customers find you easily.
Local SEO Benefits: Improves your local search engine optimization (SEO), increasing your chances of appearing in local search results.
Customer Engagement: Allows customers to interact with your business through reviews, messages, and Q&A, building trust and engagement.
Insights and Analytics: Provides valuable insights into how customers find and interact with your profile, helping you understand and improve your marketing efforts.
Enhanced Credibility: A well-maintained GBP adds credibility to your business, as customers can see reviews, photos, and detailed information.
Cost-Effective Marketing: It’s free to create and maintain, providing a cost-effective way to market your business online.
Showcase Your Business: Highlight your products, services, promotions, and special events directly on your profile, attracting more customers.
Setting up a Google Business Profile is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your online presence and attract more local customers. By following the steps outlined above, you can create and optimize your GBP to leverage the many benefits it offers, ensuring your business stands out in local search results.
For more Top Tips for your Celebrant business, sign up for my Bulletin.