Google Business Profile: A Beginner’s Guide to Optimising Your Business for Local Search
It all starts with an optimised Google Business Profile.
Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly Google My Business (GMB), is an essential tool for local businesses looking to improve their online visibility. By optimising your profile with relevant keywords, you increase the chances of being found by potential customers when they search for services in your area. This guide walks you through the steps to enhance your Google Business Profile, from adding the right keywords to using free and paid tools for efficient management.
Understanding keywords for Google Business Profile
Keywords are crucial to how your GBP ranks in local online searches. These are the words or phrases your target audience types into search engines to find businesses like yours. Incorporating the right keywords into your GBP helps Google match your profile with relevant queries.
Types of keywords
- Local keywords: Combine your business’s services with a geographic term, like “plumber in South West WA”.
- Service-based keywords: Focus on what your business offers, such as “emergency plumbing services”.
Short-tail vs long-tail keywords
- Short-tail keywords, like “plumber,” are broad but highly competitive.
- Long-tail keywords, such as “emergency plumber in South West WA”, are more specific and can attract customers with higher purchase intent.
How to add keywords to your Google Business Profile
1. Business name (use caution)
While adding keywords to your business name may seem tempting, it’s important to follow Google’s guidelines to avoid penalties. Only include keywords in your business name if they are a natural part of your registered name, such as “Smith Emergency Plumbing Services.”
2. Business description
Your Google Business Profile description is a great opportunity to add relevant keywords. Focus on integrating your primary and secondary keywords naturally into a concise description of what your business offers. For example:
“We provide expert plumbing services in South West WA, specialising in emergency repairs, drain cleaning, and 24-hour support.”
Ensure the most important keywords are included within the first 250 characters.
3. Business categories
Choose the most precise primary and secondary categories possible to describe your business accurately. For example, if you’re a plumber, your primary category should be “plumber,” while secondary categories could include “emergency plumbing services” and “drain cleaning”.
4. Products and services
List your services using keyword-rich titles and descriptions. For example:
- Service name: “Emergency Plumbing in South West WA”
- Description: “Offering 24/7 emergency plumbing services across South West WA for residential and commercial properties.”
5. Business attributes
Free and paid tools for managing your Google Business Profile
Free tools:
- Google Business Profile Manager: Update your profile, respond to reviews, and track insights directly from Google.
- Google Keyword Planner: Use this tool to discover relevant keywords for your business.
- Ubersuggest: A free keyword research tool that helps you find high-ranking keywords.
Paid tools:
Boost your local SEO with our FREE Google Business Profile keyword planner!
Take control of your local search visibility with our free downloadable Google Business Profile Keyword Planner. This easy-to-use template is designed specifically for businesses in Australia and South West WA, helping you optimise your Google Business Profile with the right keywords. Whether you’re a small business owner or a local service provider, this planner will guide you through identifying high-intent keywords, strategically placing them in key sections of your profile, and tracking your progress. Download it today to get started on improving your local rankings and attracting more customers!
Looking to improve your local SEO further?
Maximise the impact of your Google Business Profile with our Google Business Profile Optimisation Checklist. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step, from setting up your business information to managing reviews and updating posts. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your profile for better visibility, this checklist will help.
Boost your local SEO with Google Business Profile
Optimising your Google Business Profile is essential for local businesses aiming to increase their online presence. By strategically using the right keywords, you can improve your visibility, attract more customers, and grow your business.
For businesses in South West WA, CLP Advertising & Photography Services offers expert Google Business Profile management services to help you achieve better local search results. Get in touch to see how we can enhance your online presence today!