Helpful tips to get started with your Google Business Profile

Google My Business Image Sizes

Google My Business recommends using images that are at least 720 pixels wide by 720 pixels tall. However, the ideal image size may vary depending on the specific type of image you are uploading. Always use JPG format.

Here are the recommended image sizes for different types of images on Google My Business:

• Profile photo: 720 x 720 (must be square)
• General photos: 1000 x 1000px (must be square)
• Updates: 720 x 540px
• Logo photo: 720x 720px (must be square)

It’s also important to keep in mind that Google My Business has a file size limit of 5MB for each photo. To ensure that your images load quickly and look great on all devices, it’s best to use high-quality images that are properly optimized for the web.

What is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google’s various platforms. By claiming and verifying your profile, you can control the information that appears about your business in Google Search and Google Maps. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, reviews, and more.

Why is Your Google Business Profile Important for Local Search?

Having an optimised Google Business Profile is crucial for businesses that rely on local customers. When someone searches for a business on Google, they’re often looking for something nearby. Google’s algorithm takes into account the searcher’s location and shows them results that are geographically relevant. By optimising your Google Business Profile, you can increase your chances of appearing in those search results.

Here are a few ways that optimising your Google Business Profile can help improve your local search results:

1. Increased visibility: When your Google Business Profile is optimised, it can appear in a number of places on Google, including the local pack (the top three results that appear on a map at the top of the page) and the knowledge panel (the box that appears on the right-hand side of the search results).
2. Better rankings: Optimising your Google Business Profile can also help improve your rankings in local search results. Google takes into account a number of factors when determining which businesses to show in the local pack, including proximity, relevance, and prominence. By optimising your profile with accurate and up-to-date information, you can improve your chances of appearing at the top of the local pack.
3. Increased engagement: A well-optimised Google Business Profile can also help increase engagement with potential customers. By including high-quality photos, responding to reviews, and posting updates, you can create a more compelling and engaging presence on Google that will make people more likely to visit your business.

How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile

Now that you know why your Google Business Profile is important for local search, let’s talk about how to optimise it. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Claim and verify your profile

The first step in optimising your Google Business Profile is to claim and verify it. This involves logging into your Google account, searching for your business, and following the prompts to claim and verify your profile. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to edit your information and start optimising your profile.

Add accurate and up-to-date information

Make sure your business name, address, phone number, and website are accurate and up-to-date. This information should match what’s on your website and other online directories. This will help Google verify that your business is legitimate and increase your chances of appearing in local search results.

Choose the right categories

When setting up your Google Business Profile, be sure to choose the most relevant categories for your business. This will help Google understand what your business does and improve your chances of appearing in relevant search results.

Add high-quality photos

Adding high-quality photos of your business can help make your Google Business Profile more engaging and appealing to potential customers. Make sure your photos are high-resolution and showcase your business in the best possible light.

Encourage Reviews

One of the best ways to improve your Google Business Profile and local search results is by encouraging customers to leave reviews. Positive reviews can increase customer trust and drive more business to your website. Respond to every review that you receive, whether it’s positive or negative. This shows that you are attentive to your customers and their needs.

Use Posts to Share News and Promotions

Google Business Profile allows you to create posts to share news and promotions about your business. You can share information about upcoming events, sales, or new products. Use posts to highlight the unique aspects of your business and to engage with your customers. You can also add photos and videos to your posts to make them more engaging.

Monitor Your Insights

Google Business Profile provides insights into how customers are finding and interacting with your business. You can see how many people have viewed your profile, how many people have clicked on your website, and how many people have requested directions to your business. Use this information to make informed decisions about how to optimise your profile and improve your local search results.

Keep Your Information Up-to-Date

Make sure that your Google Business Profile is always up-to-date with accurate information about your business. This includes your address, phone number, website, and hours of operation. If you have seasonal hours, make sure to update them accordingly. Keeping your information up-to-date will ensure that customers can easily find and connect with your business.

In conclusion, your Google Business Profile is a powerful tool for improving your local search results. By optimising your profile with accurate information, encouraging reviews, and sharing posts, you can increase your visibility on Google and drive more business to your website. Keep your profile up-to-date and monitor your insights to make informed decisions about how to improve your profile over time.

If you would rather have someone do this for you DoodleIT can help. Call Peter or Anthony on 01824 702375 to discuss. Prices normally start at £30 for a basic setup.