A Google Business Profile (GBP), previously known as Google My Business (GMB), is an essential tool for local businesses aiming to enhance their online presence. With a GBP, businesses can create a Google Places listing, prominently featuring them on Google Maps. This visibility is crucial for attracting new customers, especially in the competitive landscape where 81% of consumers search online before visiting a store, but only 25% proceed beyond the first page of search results.
What’s a Service Area Business?
Service area businesses are distinct from traditional brick-and-mortar establishments as they provide services directly to customers at their locations. Examples include HVAC contractors, locksmiths, plumbers, and landscapers. For these businesses, clearly defining their service area—typically a geographic zone or metropolitan area—is crucial for potential customers.
Setting Up Google Business Profile for a Service Area Business
Even without a physical storefront, service area businesses can significantly benefit from a Google Business Profile. This profile enhances local SEO, making it easier for potential customers to discover relevant businesses through Google searches.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Claim Your Business on Google:
- Visit Google Business Profile and click “Manage Now.”
- Enter your business name in the search box. If your business is not listed, you’ll have the option to add it.
2. Verify Your Business:
- Google requires verification to ensure you are the rightful owner of the business. This is often done via a postcard mailed to your business address with a unique verification code, which you enter online to complete the process.
3. Review Your Business Information:
- After verification, ensure your business details, including address and phone number, are accurate. Updates may take a few weeks to reflect on Google’s search engine and Maps.
Managing a Google Places Service Area Listing
Google Business Profile’s user-friendly dashboard allows business owners to easily update their business information, including service areas. Here’s how to add, remove, or edit a service area:
Steps to Manage Service Areas:
Open Your Google Business Profile:
- Click on your profile picture at the top right, then open “Your Business Profile.”
Navigate to “Location and Areas”:
- Select “Edit Profile,” then go to “Business Information” to find “Location and areas.”
Select “Edit”:
- Click on the pencil icon next to “Service area.”
Choose or Remove Service Areas:
- Add or delete service areas as needed. You can specify up to 20 service areas based on zip codes, cities, or regions you serve.
Save Your Changes:
- Click “Save” to update your profile. Changes may take a few days to publish.
Optimizing Your Google Business Profile for a Service Area Business
To maximize the effectiveness of your GBP, follow these optimization strategies:
Step-by-Step Optimization:
Choose Relevant Primary and Secondary Categories:
- Accurately describe your business with specific primary and secondary categories. For instance, a landscaper might choose “Landscape Lighting Designer” as a primary category and “Landscaper” as a secondary.
Add Services to Your Profile:
- In the “Business Profile” section, click “Edit services” to add or modify services. This provides clarity on what your business offers.
Include Images and Videos:
- Upload high-quality visuals showcasing your services. This acts as a portfolio and attracts potential clients.
Leverage Customer Reviews:
- Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Respond to reviews to show engagement and improve local SEO. Positive reviews enhance your reputation, while timely responses to negative reviews can mitigate damage.
Create Posts on Google Business Profile:
- Use GBP to publish updates about offers, events, or new services. Regular updates keep your profile active and engaging.
Add Local Business Links:
- Include links to your website or scheduling page to simplify the conversion process for potential customers.
Utilizing Social Media for Community Engagement
Engage with your customers and enhance your online presence by managing accounts on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, LinkedIn, and Twitter. These platforms help build a community, spread brand awareness, and promote your services.
Conclusion
Managing your Google Places listing through a Google Business Profile is a powerful strategy for service area businesses to boost their online visibility and attract more customers. By optimizing your profile, leveraging customer reviews, and engaging with your community on social media, you can enhance your business’s reputation and drive growth. For comprehensive review management and online reputation enhancement, consider using tools like Broadly’s review management software. This ensures you can monitor and respond to reviews efficiently, providing an exceptional customer experience.
