Why Every Business Needs a Google Business Profile — and How to Optimise Yours

If you’re a business owner and you're not yet using a Google Business Profile, you’re potentially missing out on one of the most powerful (and free) tools to help your brand get found online.

Whether you're a service provider, a shop owner, or a freelancer meeting clients locally, a Google Business Profile helps your business show up on Google Search and Google Maps, giving customers everything they need to get in touch with you — fast.

What is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business, is what appears when someone searches for your business name or relevant services in your area. It typically shows your:

• Business name

• Contact details

• Location on the map

• Opening hours

• Website link

• Photos

• Reviews

You can create your profile here:
➡️ Create your Google Business Profile

Why is it so important?

A well-optimised profile can:

• Improve your local SEO ranking

• Increase visibility in local search results

• Help you appear in map searches

• Boost customer trust with authentic reviews

• Direct people to your website and social channels

• Encourage more enquiries and foot traffic

Key Tips for Optimising Your Google Business Profile

1. Add Accurate Information

Make sure your business name, address, phone number, website and opening hours are all correct — and match the details on your website and social media.

If you work remotely or from home, don’t use your home address. Instead, register as a service-based business and list the areas you serve. Avoid using your accountant’s or a virtual office address unless it’s a legitimate business location.

2. Link All Relevant Platforms

Link your website and social media platforms to your profile. This not only adds credibility but also helps Google index your business more effectively and drive traffic where you want it.

3. Set Your Location and Service Areas

If you meet clients in person, clearly define your service area. This helps you appear in searches for nearby customers. The map placement is essential for visibility, especially for local searches.

4. Upload Quality Photos

Include up-to-date photos of your work, your team, your premises (if relevant), and even behind-the-scenes content. Businesses with visuals receive significantly more engagement.

5. Collect and Respond to Reviews

Encourage happy clients to leave a Google review — these are incredibly valuable for trust and SEO. Even more importantly, respond to every review personally. A thoughtful, genuine reply shows that you care and helps build long-term loyalty.

6. Keep Your Profile Updated

It’s not just about setting your profile up — it’s about maintaining it. Make sure your contact info, opening hours, links, and photos are always accurate. An out-of-date profile can lead to confusion, lost trust, or worse — you could end up sending potential customers to a competitor without realising.

Regular updates also show Google that your business is active and reliable, which can help improve your ranking in search results.

Ready to Optimise Your Profile?

If you’re unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed by the setup, I’d love to help. At Studio 5 Norwich, I work with small and growing businesses to ensure your Google Business Profile works with your website and social media — not in isolation.

To find out how I can help with Google optimisation, content creation, or broader digital strategy, feel free to get in touch:

📧 nicole@studio-5.uk
🌐 www.studio-5.uk

Let’s make sure people can find your business online — easily, consistently, and confidently.