Google My Business Tips for Local Shops

Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression customers have of your business. When someone searches for "coffee near me" or your business name, this listing appears - and it heavily influences whether they visit or call.

Profile Optimization Checklist

• Claim and verify - If you haven't done this, you're missing out on control over your listing.
• Accurate NAP - Name, Address, Phone must match your website exactly.
• Business categories - Choose primary category carefully, add secondary categories that apply.
• Complete description - 750 characters to explain what makes you unique. Include keywords naturally.
• Products/Services - Add everything you offer with descriptions and prices.
• Attributes - Wheelchair accessible, free WiFi, outdoor seating, etc. Complete all relevant ones.
• Special hours - Update for holidays, special events, temporary closures.

Photos and Videos

Listings with photos get 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks.

• Cover photo - Your best image. This shows prominently in search.
• Logo - For brand recognition.
• Exterior - Help people recognize your location. Different angles, day and night if applicable.
• Interior - Show the atmosphere. Multiple shots of different areas.
• Products - Your best offerings. High quality, appetizing/appealing.
• Team - Humanize your business with staff photos.

Add new photos regularly - Google rewards active profiles with better visibility.

Managing Reviews

Reviews are crucial for local rankings and customer trust:

• Ask for reviews - After positive interactions, send customers your review link.
• Respond to all reviews - Yes, even the 5-star ones. Thank them specifically.
• Handle negative reviews professionally - Acknowledge the issue, apologize, offer to resolve offline. Never argue.
• Don't fake reviews - Google detects and removes them. Could result in account suspension.
• Report inappropriate reviews - Fake competitor reviews or irrelevant content can be flagged.

Response template for negative reviews:

"Hi [Name], thank you for the feedback. We're sorry your experience didn't meet expectations. We'd like to make this right - please contact us at [email/phone] so we can discuss further."

Your Google Business Profile is free real estate on the world's biggest search engine. Optimize it fully, keep it updated, and actively manage reviews. It's one of the highest-ROI marketing activities for local businesses.