When people search for services “near me,” does your business show up? If not, you’re missing out on valuable local leads.

Your Google My Business (GMB) profile (now known as Google Business Profile) is a game-changer when it comes to improving local search visibility. It’s often the first impression people get of your business, even before they visit your website.

At Skillwise Solutions, we’ve seen how a well-optimized GMB profile can boost visibility, drive foot traffic, and generate more calls and inquiries. The best part? It’s free to set up and easy to manage—if you know how.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you optimize your Google Business Profile and attract more local customers.

Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Business

If you haven’t claimed your listing yet, head over to Google Business Profile Manager and claim your business. Google will send you a verification code by mail, email, or phone. This step is crucial because unverified businesses won't appear in search results.

Pro Tip: Use a business email domain (not personal Gmail) to manage your listing for a professional touch.

Step 2: Fill Out Every Detail Accurately

Google rewards complete profiles with better rankings. Ensure you fill in:

• Business Name: Must match your real-world business name.
• Category: Choose the most accurate primary category. You can add secondary categories too.
• Address: Make sure it’s correct and consistent across all platforms.
• Phone Number: Use a local number instead of a call center number.
• Website URL: Link to your main website or a dedicated landing page.
• Business Hours: Keep these updated, including special holiday hours.
   

Pro Tip: Consistency in your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) across directories boosts your local SEO.

Step 3: Write a Compelling Business Description

Your business description should be more than just a tagline. Use this space to tell people who you are, what you offer, and what makes you unique. Incorporate relevant keywords naturally, but avoid keyword stuffing.

Example:
“At Skillwise Solutions, we specialize in data-driven digital marketing strategies, helping local businesses grow through SEO, paid ads, and engaging social media campaigns.”

Step 4: Add High-Quality Photos and Videos

Did you know listings with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites? Add:

• A professional logo
• Cover photo showcasing your brand
• Interior & exterior shots of your office/store
• Team photos (humanize your brand)
• Product or service images
• Short video tours or client testimonials
   

Pro Tip: Update photos regularly to keep your profile fresh.

Step 5: Collect and Respond to Reviews

Online reviews are the modern-day word-of-mouth. Actively ask your happy customers to leave a review and always respond—whether it’s positive or negative.

Responding to reviews shows you value customer feedback and improves your profile’s credibility. Always be polite and professional.

Pro Tip: Use a review generation link to make it easy for customers to review you.

Step 6: Post Regular Updates

Google Business Profile allows you to post updates, offers, and events just like social media. This keeps your audience informed and improves visibility in search results.

Ideas for posts:

• New service launches
• Limited-time offers
• Blog snippets
• Event announcements
  
  Pro Tip: Treat your GMB posts like mini social posts—keep them visual and action-driven.

Step 7: Track Insights and Optimize

Google provides valuable insights on how customers find your profile, actions they take, and where they come from. Regularly review metrics like:

• Profile views
• Website clicks
• Call clicks
• Direction requests
• Search queries

Use this data to refine your content, timing of posts, and service offerings.

Optimizing your Google My Business profile is one of the easiest yet most impactful ways to increase your local visibility and drive more qualified leads. It bridges the gap between online discovery and real-world interaction.

At Skillwise Solutions, we help businesses like yours harness the power of local SEO to stand out in your community. If you’re ready to attract more local customers, it’s time to optimize and grow.