Some businesses pop up at the top of search results, while others remain buried. Do you know why?
It’s no accident. These top-ranking businesses know how to optimize their website for local SEO and Google My Business profile. These are the businesses that get the most leads and eventually revenue from the internet.
Want the same for your business? In this blog, you’ll learn how to 10X your lead generation with a Google My Business (GMB) profile.
Why is GMB a powerful tool for lead generation?
Do not make the mistake of seeing GMB as just a business directory. It’s a dynamic tool that can turn local searches into real business opportunities. When you optimize your profile, you appear in local search results and appear on Google Maps. Customers prefer to engage with businesses that have verified information directly on Google.
Moreover, GMB provides user-friendly features like messaging, reviews, and posts so that you can connect directly with your audience. When you set it up correctly, GMB becomes a magnet for leads for your business.
Setting your GMB profile for maximum lead generation
Complete all business information
First and foremost is filling out every detail of your GMB profile. Name, address, and phone (NAP) are the basic details. Plus, the other essential details like hours of operation, business categories, etc, are also important.
Utilize keywords strategically
Just like optimizing a website, GMB profiles benefit from relevant keywords. When you write your business description or list your services, use terms that your target audience is searching for.
For example, if you’re a digital marketing agency providing Google My Business management services, use keywords like “local SEO services” or “GMB services” naturally within the profile.
Add high-quality images and videos
Visual content is easier to understand. Also, it converts better. They don’t just make your profile look professional but also engage users who want to see what your business looks like or what you offer.
Add high-quality images of your storefront, product, services, or team members to build a connection with potential customers.
Enable messaging
Direct communication converts leads quickly. And GMB has a feature for that. When enabled, users can reach out to you with their questions or requests.
Be sure to respond promptly to these inquiries. Setting up auto-reply is also a good idea to acknowledge customer messages and assure them that you’ll get back soon.
Post regular updates and promotions
GMB posts are an underutilized feature, but if used correctly, it can bring a lot of engagement. To keep your profile fresh, regularly post updates about new services, promotions, or events.
Additionally, these fresh posts provide valuable information to potential leads who may be interested in your latest offerings or discounts. Keep your posts concise and visually appealing, and use them to guide users towards taking action.
Gather and manage customer reviews
Reviews are one of the strongest trust factors online. When you serve your customers, and they are satisfied with your service, ask them to leave a positive review. Make it a habit to ask for reviews after every successful interaction, whether it’s a service call, a purchase, or an event. You can even motivate your customers to leave feedback by offering them a small incentive (like a discount on the next service).
Now, after gathering reviews, it’s also important to manage them actively. Reply to reviews from time to time. Acknowledge positive reviews with thanks and negative reviews with a helpful reply.
GMB insights for better lead generation
GMB has built-in analytics features. They call it GMB insights. It’s a goldmine for understanding how people interact with your profile. You can analyze data like the search queries customers use, the number of profile views, and actions taken (calls, direction requests, or clicks on your website link).
If you notice that many users are searching for a service you offer but do not click through to your website, you might need to adjust your call to action button or provide a special offer directly in your GMB listing.
Or, if you see that a large percentage of users are requesting directions, you should optimize your Google Map location.
Conclusion
Google My Business is not just a business directory; it’s a powerful yet underutilized tool. Businesses can (and should) create and optimize their GMB profile for maximum lead generation and growth.
If you’re a business that doesn’t have time to manage your GMB profile actively, you can hire an agency to manage your profile. But if you’re doing it yourself, the tips given in the above blog will help you in the process.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
