What is a Google Business Profile?

“Google” was chosen as the American Dialect Society’s “most useful word” of 2002. Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary added the verb “google” to its 11th edition in 2006. 
In 2023, businesses of all sizes rely on the world’s largest search engine to be visible, provide a positive first impression, and engage with customers.
While paid tier options are available, with a free Google Business Profile (GBP), you can do plenty.

• Build or expand your brand’s online presence.
• Maintain accurate information about your business, including hours of operation, contact information, and the products and services you provide.
• Spotlight your brand’s personality with logos, photos, posts, and stories.
• Feature what makes your business unique, such as any special health or safety cautions you take.
• Add special attributes such as “ veteran-owned” or “woman-owned.”
• Easily connect with customers via direct messages.
• Provide online quotes.
• Highlight special offers or upcoming events.
• Post answers to FAQs. You can even allow customers to answer as well, if desired.
• Collect and respond to customer reviews.
• Use Google Maps and Search to easily manage your online presence from anywhere, anytime.
• Attract and interact with new customers.
• Drive customers to your website.
• Interact with and learn from others with Business Profiles via the Business Profile Community.
• Improve your SEO (see below).

What is SEO?

One way to think of SEO (search engine optimization) is being “search engine friendly.” It is the process of improving your business’s online presence by increasing its organic visibility in search engines (largely via relevant “keywords”). The goal of SEO 
is to help you attract visitors who become customers. The better visibility your business has in search results, the more likely it is to be clicked on.

By contrast, SEM (search engine marketing) refers to purchased ads that show up in search results.

Getting Started

To get started setting up your Google Business Profile, first you will need a Google account (preferably one associated with your business). If you do not have a Google account, setting one up is quick and easy. 
Just go to Google.com, click “create account,” and follow the steps.

Once you have a business google account, simply scan the QR code above with your smartphone. Or you can (you guessed it) google, “How do I set up a Google Business Profile?” and follow the steps.

Lastly, you will definitely want to verify your account for a couple of reasons. First, the verification process helps protect you as the rightful owner of the business, so that you (and only you) have permission 
to manage your Business Profile. Secondly, verified businesses on Google are twice as likely to be considered reputable by users.