Why Your Google Business Profile Matters More Than Ever
By Mark Newsom
In a world where first impressions often happen online, your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) may be the most important piece of digital real estate you own — especially if you’re a local business.
Whether you’re a contractor, consultant, designer, or retail shop, showing up where your customers are looking (hint: Google Search and Maps) is essential. And that starts with a well-optimized, regularly updated Google Business Profile.
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is what shows up when someone searches your business name or something related to your services in your area — like “custom home builder near Table Rock Lake” or “marketing consultant in Springfield, MO.”
It typically includes:
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Business name
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Location and service area
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Phone number and website
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Photos
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Reviews
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Hours
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A short description
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Posts, updates, or offers
And it’s often the first thing potential clients see. That’s not just visibility — it’s a direct connection to your reputation.
Why It’s So Important
1. Local SEO Powerhouse
Google uses your profile to rank you in local search results. Keeping it complete and accurate boosts your chances of being found by nearby customers who are actively searching for your services.
2. Builds Trust
A complete profile with updated hours, recent reviews, and authentic photos makes your business feel real and reputable. Think of it as your digital storefront.
3. Drives Calls, Clicks, and Conversions
Users can call, get directions, or visit your website directly from your profile — all without ever visiting your homepage.
4. Collects and Showcases Reviews
Social proof is powerful. A strong set of 4- and 5-star reviews can set you apart from competitors instantly.
5. It’s Free
One of the few high-impact tools you can use without spending a dime — as long as you put in the effort to keep it current.
Maintaining Your Profile: Best Practices
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Claim and verify it if you haven’t already.
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Keep hours, services, and contact info up to date.
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Upload real photos — especially of your team, work, and office.
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Respond to reviews (positive and negative) with professionalism.
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Use Posts to share updates, blog articles, promotions, or events.
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Check your Q&A section for customer questions and answer them promptly.
Final Thought
Your Google Business Profile isn’t just a box to check — it’s a living representation of your brand. It’s where people form their first impressions, decide whether to contact you, and often choose you over someone else.
If you haven’t touched yours in months, it’s time to log in and refresh it. A few minutes each week could mean the difference between showing up — or being skipped over.
Need help optimizing your profile or managing your local presence?
That’s what I do. Let’s chat about how to make your business easier to find and harder to ignore.