The Importance of Complete Listings on Google Business Profile (GBP)

Google Business Profile (GBP) is a powerful tool for local businesses to attract, connect, and engage with customers through Google Search and Maps. 

With over 100 billion visits to business websites and more than 3 billion direct connections between businesses and customers facilitated by Google every month, having a complete and well-managed Google Business Profile listing can significantly impact your business's visibility and customer engagement.

Three Key Reasons to Use Google Business Profile

1. Stand Out on Google Search and Maps

   A complete and well-maintained GBP listing can make your business stand out from the competition:

   • Complete Your Listing: Businesses with a complete listing are 2.7 times more likely to be seen as reputable. Customers are more inclined to visit businesses that have crucial information such as hours of operation available on their Google Search or Maps results.

   • Add Photos: Including photos in your GBP profile can increase customer engagement. Businesses with photos receive 40% more requests for directions and 90% of customers are more likely to choose a business that has photos visible on Search and Maps.

   • Create a Website: Listings that include a link to a website can get 25-35% more clicks. This means more potential customers are exploring your business offerings online.

   • Select Attributes: You can specify attributes relevant to your business, such as payment methods and accessibility options. This additional information helps customers make more informed decisions when choosing a business.

2. Engage with New Customers

   GBP makes it easier for customers to connect and engage with your business:

   • Make It Easy for Customers to Reach You: Including a phone number on your GBP listing makes it 90% more likely that customers will choose your business when they see it on Google Search and Maps.

   • Engage with Customer Reviews: Customer reviews play a crucial role in influencing potential customers. Two out of three customers say that positive reviews significantly affect their decision to choose a business. Responding to reviews—both positive and negative—can show that you value customer feedback and are committed to providing a good experience.

   • Share and Answer Questions: GBP allows you to respond directly to customer questions, highlight the best answers, and add frequently asked questions (FAQs) to your listing, helping you provide relevant information upfront.

   • Message in Real Time: Through GBP messaging, you can communicate with customers in real time, providing them with quick answers and support.

   • Accept Bookings: Many customers prefer to schedule appointments online. GBP allows business owners to add a booking button to their listing, making it convenient for customers to book services directly from the search results.

3. Find New Customers

   GBP helps you gain insights into customer behaviours and attract new customers through advertisements:

   • Better Understand Customer Behaviours: GBP provides valuable data, such as incoming calls, requests for directions, and website visits. This information can help you understand how customers are interacting with your business and refine your marketing strategies accordingly.

A complete and actively managed Google Business Profile can significantly enhance your business's online presence, drive customer engagement, and attract new customers. 

By following the best practices for optimising your GBP listing, you can ensure that your business stands out in local searches and meets the needs of potential customers effectively.