If your business operates in the local market, make sure it is visible online in local search results. In this context, setting up and updating your Google Business Profile is an excellent solution. It is a great tool that allows you to reach customers through the search engine and Google Maps. It also serves as a way to build customer loyalty and trust. Want to learn more? We invite you to read our article!
What is Google My Business and how does it work?
The Google Business Profile, or GBP (formerly Google My Business), is a free service from Google that allows business owners to add and update information about their operations. GBP (formerly Google My Business) is often compared to an online mini-website, a company’s digital business card. Thanks to the business profile, your company can be visible in Google search results or on Google Maps. This is especially important for entrepreneurs operating locally. What else should you know?
GBP enables you to publish important information about your business operations, such as opening hours, office address, and range of services. It also allows for interaction with users who leave reviews on the Profile.
The Business Profile is easy to use and does not require advanced IT knowledge. Google is continuously implementing new improvements and features that enhance user experience. This is why more and more entrepreneurs are choosing to set up an account in Google Business Profile.
The Business Profile can be co-created by all users with a Google account!
The GBP service is designed to allow various people with a Google account to co-create the company profile. In practice, your customers, competitors, and even random users can, among other things:
- Propose changes to basic information, such as working hours, pin location, or office address,
- Publish photos and videos,
- Indicate attributes that describe your company.
It is important to be aware that some entries added by customers or dishonest competitors may portray your company in a negative light. Therefore, you need to continuously monitor the changes made and correct any content that is not true.
How much does the Google Business Profile cost?
Setting up an account in GBP is completely free. Be cautious of dishonest companies trying to charge you unnecessary fees. If someone tries to convince you that registering in GBP is paid, do not believe them. However, you can outsource the management of your Google Business Profile to a marketing agency. Although such a service comes with additional costs, it saves you time. In practice, an external company—like our growAp—handles the updating and management of your GBP on your behalf.
Google Business Profile – Capabilities and Functions of GBP
A GBP account significantly simplifies managing your brand’s online image. Why else is it worth having a Google Business Profile?
- Share important information about your business – On your Profile, you can post and update information about your company, including opening hours, website address, and phone numbers.
- Publish photos and videos – With GBP, you have the opportunity to share photos and videos that showcase your company’s headquarters or the products you offer. Regularly adding visual content attracts user attention.
- Enable customers to publish reviews and ratings – On the Business Profile, customers can post opinions and evaluate the quality of your services. This helps build trust in your brand. However, remember to regularly respond to all reviews as this fosters customer relationships.
- Answer frequently asked questions about your business – A useful feature is the Questions & Answers section, which allows you to interact with users who have inquiries on your Google Business Profile.
- Add posts related to your business – It’s beneficial to publish posts on your Business Profile. These posts can relate to current promotions or special events. You can also share educational content and interesting industry facts. Regularly posting signals to Google’s local algorithm that someone is actively managing the GBP, leading to the account being regarded as authentic.
Why is it worth having a Google Business Profile?
An active and properly managed Google My Business account comes with many benefits. The most important include:
- Increased visibility in search results – Companies with a Google Business Profile are usually more visible in local search results, which helps to reach new customers.
- Greater trust from potential customers – A Profile that is frequently updated and contains positive user reviews inspires trust.
- Easier discovery of your business by users – GBP makes it easier to find your company via the search engine and Google Maps. In addition, the Profile includes contact information and directions, providing extra convenience for customers.
- Standing out from competing companies – Consistently posting updates, showcasing special offers, and responding to user comments helps differentiate you from local competitors.
Google Business Profile – Frequently Asked Questions
Setting up a Google Business Profile raises many questions and doubts. Below are answers to some of them.
Log in to your Google account. Type your business name into the Google search bar. After completing these steps, you should see the Google Business Profile admin panel along with the available options.
The Google Business Profile is a tool dedicated to companies and entrepreneurs operating in the local market.
– Setting up a Google Business Profile is particularly recommended for businesses that operate from a fixed location. An online business card makes it easier for customers to find your store, restaurant, office, or hotel.
– The Google Business Profile is also useful for freelancers and entrepreneurs running a mobile business. It facilitates gathering customer feedback and enhancing brand reputation.
– Franchise networks, among others, also use GBP to manage their brand image online.
No. The Google Business Profile is a type of online business card that appears in Google search results and on Google Maps. A website, on the other hand, has its own domain and belongs to you. Your website’s address may appear in Google search results or on Maps only if it is added to the Business Profile. It is worth emphasizing that although GBP and a website are two different things, they complement each other.
Yes, they are completely independent services. However, even though having your own website is not required when setting up a Google Business Profile, it is advisable to have one. You can include your website address on the Business Profile, which gives customers access to additional information about the products or services you offer.
Google Business Profile – Summary
The Google Business Profile helps grow businesses operating in the local market. The tool offers many functions that simplify increasing your company’s online visibility and building brand reputation. As a result, it contributes to increased sales. However, remember to keep your GBP updated and to respond to comments regularly. Only then can you fully leverage the potential of the Google Business Profile.
Sources:
- https://www.google.com/intl/pl_pl/business/faq/ [27.01.25]
- https://support.google.com/business/answer/13762416?hl=pl&ref_topic=4540086&sjid=2750947812223254189-EU [27.01.25]
- https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038063?hl=pl&ref_topic=11497703&sjid=2750947812223254189-EU [27.01.25]
- https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Profil_Firmy_w_Google [27.01.25]
