In today’s digital-first world, local search visibility is crucial for any Indianapolis business. If customers can’t find you online, they’ll go to a competitor. Google My Business (GMB) is one of the most powerful tools to help you rank higher in local search results and connect with potential customers. But just claiming your business profile isn’t enough. To maximize its potential, you need to optimize every aspect of your profile to boost visibility, engagement, and credibility.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fully optimize your Google My Business profile so that your business ranks higher in search results, gets more clicks, and attracts more customers.
Why You Need to Optimize Your Google My Business Profile
Whether you own a small restaurant in downtown Indianapolis or manage a large retail chain, having a well-optimized Google My Business profile is essential for several reasons:
- Increased Local Visibility: Over 90% of customers search online before visiting a business. GMB helps you show up when people are searching for businesses like yours.
- Higher Ranking in Google’s Local Pack: Google rewards businesses that provide detailed, accurate, and active profiles by featuring them higher in the Local Pack (those top three businesses that appear in the map at the top of search results).
- Boosted Trust and Credibility: A fully optimized profile that regularly engages customers (via posts, reviews, and responses) signals to Google and potential customers that your business is legitimate and active.
How to Optimize Your Google My Business Profile: 12 Key Steps
1. Claim Your Business Profile
First things first—make sure your business is claimed and verified on Google My Business. If someone else claimed your profile or if you’re unsure whether it’s claimed, visit Google My Business and follow the steps to verify ownership.
2. Complete Every Section of Your Profile
Google values comprehensive profiles. Ensure every field in your GMB profile is filled out, including business name, address, phone number, hours, website, and special attributes (e.g., wheelchair accessibility). The more complete your profile is, the more likely it is to rank higher.
3. Assure Contact Information Is Correct and Consistent
Accuracy and consistency are key. Double-check that your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) are correct and consistent across all online platforms. Discrepancies can confuse both potential customers and search engines, negatively impacting your ranking.
4. Select Primary and Secondary Categories
Choose the most relevant primary category that describes your business (e.g., “Indianapolis Plumber”), and don’t forget to add secondary categories if applicable (e.g., “Water Heater Installation”). This helps Google understand what your business offers and when to show it in search results.
5. Apply Relevant Attributes
Google My Business allows you to add specific attributes to your profile, such as “Free Wi-Fi,” “Pet-friendly,” or “Women-owned business.” Use attributes that are relevant to your business to help customers get the full picture of what to expect.
6. Write an Optimized and Compelling “From the Business” Description
The “From the Business” section lets you share your business story and unique selling points. Make sure this description is clear, keyword-optimized, and engaging to help your business stand out in local search results. Avoid keyword stuffing, but do use natural keywords that potential customers might be searching for.
7. Publish Google Posts Weekly
Google Posts allow you to share updates, events, offers, or news directly on your GMB profile. Posting weekly keeps your business active in the eyes of Google and potential customers. These posts also appear in local search results, providing an additional opportunity to engage with your audience.
8. Upload New Photos Weekly
Adding fresh photos regularly is a simple yet effective way to keep your profile dynamic and appealing. Google rewards active profiles, and new images can make your business look more vibrant and trustworthy. Use high-quality photos of your products, services, or recent events.
9. Answer Questions
Google My Business allows customers to ask questions directly on your profile. Stay on top of this feature by answering these questions promptly. This not only provides helpful information to potential customers but also shows Google that you actively manage your profile.
10. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Reviews are one of the most critical factors in local search ranking. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your GMB profile. Additionally, always respond to reviews—whether positive or negative. This helps build trust and demonstrates that you care about customer feedback.
11. Add Your Products and/or Services
Listing your products or services directly on your profile helps Google and potential customers understand what you offer. Be sure to include accurate descriptions, pricing, and any details that could help people make a purchasing decision.
12. Enable Messaging
GMB allows you to enable direct messaging through your profile. Enabling this feature provides an easy way for potential customers to ask questions, make reservations, or book services. Be sure to monitor messages and respond promptly to inquiries.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your Google My Business profile can make all the difference when it comes to ranking higher in local searches and attracting more customers in Indianapolis. By following these 12 steps, you’ll not only improve your local SEO but also build trust and engagement with potential customers. Take the time to optimize your profile today, and you’ll be setting your business up for long-term success.