How to Get Your Business Ranked Higher on Google

If you’re a small business owner, you’ve probably heard of Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). Maybe you’ve even set one up quickly when you opened your doors. But here’s the truth: your Google Business Profile is more than just a digital listing—it’s one of the most powerful (and free!) marketing tools you have.

Think about it: when was the last time you Googled a restaurant, contractor, or boutique shop before visiting? That’s exactly what your customers are doing. And if your profile isn’t optimized, you could be missing out on clicks, calls, and foot traffic.

Why Your Google Business Profile Matters

Your profile is the first impression many customers will get of your business. It shows up on Google Search and Maps, often before people even land on your website.

✅ An optimized profile can:

• Boost your visibility in local searches.

• Build trust through photos and reviews.

• Drive actions (like “Call Now” or “Get Directions”) straight from the search results.

• Give potential customers everything they need in one place—without clicking around endlessly.

  
  

💡 Translation? Optimizing ranks you higher on google meaning - more eyeballs, more clicks, and more conversions.

Step 1: Claim & Verify Your Listing

Head to Google Business Profile Manager and claim your business. Verification (via postcard, phone, or email) ensures you’re the rightful owner.

Without this step, you can’t edit or fully control your profile—leaving it vulnerable to outdated info or incorrect edits from the public.

Step 2: Keep Business Info Consistent

Google values consistency, and so do customers. Make sure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) is:

• Accurate

• Consistent across your website, social media, and directories

Also include:

• Business hours (including holidays)

• Website link

• Service areas if you travel to customers

  
  

⚡ Pro Tip: If your hours change seasonally, update them right away. Nothing frustrates a customer faster than showing up to a “closed” sign when Google said you were open.

Step 3: Add High-Quality Photos & Videos

Profiles with photos get 40% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites than those without. That’s huge.

📸 What to upload:

• Exterior shots (help people recognize your building)

• Interior shots (show atmosphere, layout, or cleanliness)

• Team photos (put a face to your brand)

• Product or service photos (menu items, merchandise, before/after shots)

  
  

🎥 Videos add authenticity—try a 30-second walkthrough or “behind the scenes” clip.

Step 4: Write a Keyword-Friendly Business Description

Your description should be clear, inviting, and keyword-rich (without being spammy).

Example:

❌ “We are a local business providing services.”

✅ “NW Summit Websites & Marketing helps small businesses in North Idaho build custom websites, improve local SEO, and connect with their community through smart marketing.”

The second version includes location keywords and services offered—helping Google match you to relevant searches.

Step 5: Collect & Respond to Reviews

Reviews are pure gold. They build trust and impact your ranking.

💬 How to get more reviews:

• Ask directly after completing a job.

• Add a review link to invoices, emails, or thank-you notes.

• Post reminders on social media.

  
  

And remember—always respond. Thank positive reviewers and reply professionally to negative ones. A thoughtful response shows potential customers you care.

Step 6: Post Regular Updates

Think of your profile as a mini social media feed. Post about:

• Promotions or sales

• Events

• New products or services

• Seasonal updates

Google loves fresh content, and so do your customers.

Step 7: Add Services, Products & FAQs

Fill out every available section—it boosts your chances of showing up in more searches.

✔ Services (detailed list of what you offer)

✔ Products (photos, descriptions, and pricing)

✔ FAQs (answer common customer questions like “Do you deliver?”)

This not only saves time for your customers but also builds trust before they even contact you.

Step 8: Track Insights & Adjust

Your Google Business Profile includes helpful insights:

• How people found you (search vs. maps)

• What actions they took (calls, clicks, direction requests)

• Which photos get the most views

Review these regularly. If most people find you via Maps, focus on local keywords. If your photos drive traffic, upload more!

Bonus Tips to Take It Further

🌟 Enable Messaging: Let customers text you right from your listing.

🌟 Add Booking Links: Connect scheduling software if you take appointments.

🌟 Highlight Attributes: “Women-owned,” “Wheelchair accessible,” “Outdoor seating” (these make a difference)!

🌟 Stay Active: Update often. Google favors businesses that keep their profile fresh.

Final Thoughts

Your Google Business Profile is like your digital storefront. You wouldn’t leave your shop window empty, outdated, or dusty—so don’t do it online either.

Spend just an hour this week polishing your profile. Add photos, ask for reviews, and post an update. Small steps lead to big results.

💡 Remember: Be found. Get reviews. Grow local.