How to Set Up Your Profile in Google My Business
In today’s digital-first world, your online presence is just as critical as your physical location.
For local Australian businesses, Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful, free tool that allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Google Maps.
Whether you own a café in Sydney, a plumbing service in Brisbane, or a boutique shop in Melbourne, a well-maintained GMB profile acts as your digital storefront, attracting nearby customers searching for the services you offer.
This guide will take you step by step through the process of setting up and optimising your GMB profile, with practical tips tailored to the Australian market.
What is Google My Business (GMB)?
Google My Business is a free platform provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence.
When customers search for a business or service near them, Google displays relevant local results in the Local Pack-the map and list of businesses that appear at the top of the search results.
Think of GMB as the digital equivalent of your shopfront. Just as you would ensure your store is tidy, welcoming, and informative for walk-in customers, your GMB profile should be complete, accurate, and engaging for online visitors.
A well-optimised GMB profile doesn’t just help your business get found online—it also boosts trust, encourages engagement, and can lead to more customers walking through your doors.
Step 1: Creating Your Google My Business Profile
Sign Up or Log In
- Go to the Google My Business website and sign in using your Google account.
- Click “Manage Now” to search for your business or create a new one if it doesn’t exist.
Pro Tip: Ensure your business name is consistent with your branding across all platforms. For example, always use “Coastal Café Sydney” rather than varying between “Coastal Café” or “Coastal Coffee Co.”
Add Accurate Business Details
Provide your business name, address, phone number, website, and other essential information. These details must match what’s listed on your website and other online directories to maintain consistency.
- For storefront businesses: Enter your exact address (e.g., "123 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000").
- For service-area businesses: If you operate without a physical storefront, list the service areas you cover (e.g., “Brisbane Metro Area”).
Step 2: Verify Your Business
Google requires verification to confirm your business is legitimate. In Australia, you can typically verify via:
- Postcard: Google will send a postcard with a verification code to your listed address (arrives in 7–14 days).
- Phone or Email: In some cases, you may verify using your phone or email if the option is available.
Tips for Smooth Verification:
- Use the exact address format recognised by Australia Post.
- Inform your team to watch for the postcard to avoid delays.
Once verified, your business can begin appearing in local search results.
Step 3: Optimising Your Profile Information
A fully optimised profile ensures your business stands out among competitors. Each section should be completed with care to maximise your visibility.
Business Name and Categories
Choose a primary category that best describes your business. For example:
- A dentist in Sydney might select “Dentist” as the primary category and “Cosmetic Dentistry” as a secondary one.
- A clothing boutique in Melbourne could use “Women’s Clothing Store” as the primary category and “Accessories Store” as a secondary one.
Address and Service Areas
Include your physical address or define the regions your business serves. For instance:
- A delivery service could list “Greater Adelaide Area” to target their specific audience.
Operating Hours and Contact Information
- Add clear business hours, including special holiday schedules.
- Provide an up-to-date phone number and website URL for direct communication.
Step 4: Enhancing Your GMB Profile with Media
Photos and Videos
Visual content makes your profile more attractive and engaging. Upload high-quality images that showcase your business:
- Profile Image: Your logo or something iconic that represents your brand.
- Interior and Exterior Photos: Help customers recognise your location.
- Action Shots: Photos of your team at work to humanise your business (e.g., a barista making coffee or a plumber fixing a sink).
Videos can also increase engagement, so consider uploading a short tour of your business or a “behind the scenes” clip.
Write a Compelling Business Description
Use up to 750 characters to describe your business. Focus on what sets you apart and include relevant keywords naturally.
- Example for a landscaping business: “Based in Melbourne, we specialise in eco-friendly landscaping solutions, including native garden designs, sustainable irrigation systems, and outdoor living spaces.”
Step 5: Engaging with Customers Using Google Posts
Google Posts allow you to share updates, promotions, and news directly on your profile.
What to Post
- Announce seasonal promotions, like: “Get 15% off all services this February in Perth!”
- Share events, such as a grand opening or workshop.
Tips for Effective Posts
- Keep the text short, engaging, and action-oriented.
- Include a Call to Action (CTA) like “Book Now,” “Contact Us,” or “Learn More.”
- Post regularly (at least once a week) to keep your profile active and relevant.
Step 6: Managing Reviews and FAQs
Encouraging Positive Reviews
Reviews play a critical role in building credibility. Politely ask satisfied customers to leave a review on your GMB profile. For example, you might say, “If you enjoyed our service, we’d love your feedback on Google!”
Responding to Reviews
- Positive reviews: Thank customers and personalise your response.
- Negative reviews: Respond professionally, address the issue, and offer a resolution.
Answer FAQs
Add frequently asked questions to your profile to provide instant answers to common queries. For example:
- “Do you offer vegan options?”
- “What payment methods do you accept?”
Step 7: Monitoring Insights and Staying Updated
Track Performance with GMB Insights
Google My Business provides detailed analytics showing how customers interact with your profile. Use this data to refine your strategy:
- Search Queries: See what keywords customers use to find you.
- Customer Actions: Track clicks to your website, calls, and direction requests.
Stay Compliant with Google’s Guidelines
Regularly review Google’s policies to avoid penalties and ensure your profile performs optimally.
Conclusion
A well-optimised Google My Business profile is more than just a tool—it’s a direct line to your local customers.
Take the time to create, verify, and maintain your profile for maximum visibility and engagement.
Start optimising your Google My Business profile today to connect with your community and grow your business.
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