If your business serves a specific area, your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful tools in your digital toolkit. It is often the first thing people see when they search for your service near them.
An optimised profile can boost your visibility in local search results, increase trust, and drive real traffic—both online and in person. Whether you run a restaurant, clinic, service company, or agency, your profile plays a critical role in local SEO.
Here is how to get the most from it.
Why Google Business Profiles Matter for Local Search
When someone searches for a service in their area—like “graphic designer near me” or “best web developer in Toronto”—Google often shows a map with a few featured businesses. These listings come from Google Business Profiles.
The businesses shown in these “local packs” are not random. Google chooses them based on location, relevance, quality, and the strength of their profile. If your profile is incomplete or outdated, you may not even be considered.
An optimised profile increases your chances of:
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Showing up in local map results
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Appearing in voice searches
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Earning trust with new customers
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Driving calls, website visits, and directions
If your goal is to be seen by people nearby, this is where you start.
How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile
1. Fill Out Every Section
Your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) must be accurate and match what appears on your website and directories. Then, go further:
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Add your website URL
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Choose the correct business category
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Include all relevant services
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Add your hours, holiday closures, and service area
The more complete your profile is, the more trust you build with both users and Google.
Need help aligning your online presence? Our SEO services can support you with local setup and audits.
2. Use High-Quality Photos
Photos make your listing stand out and help people feel confident about choosing you. Upload real, professional-looking images of your:
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Team and office or storefront
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Products or services in action
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Portfolio or recent work
- Branded graphics or signage
Update your photos regularly to keep your profile fresh and engaging.
3. Write a Strong Business Description
Your description should clearly explain what you do, who you help, and what sets you apart. Keep it concise, professional, and in your brand voice.
Here’s a good example:
“Loop Marketing is a Canadian digital agency offering SEO, branding, web design, and paid advertising. We help small to medium-sized businesses grow their online visibility.”
4. Use the Services and Products Sections
Many businesses skip this, but these sections are essential. Add your key services along with short descriptions. For example:
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SEO Strategy & Optimization
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Custom Website Design
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Graphic Design & Branding
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Paid Advertising Campaigns
These entries can help you show up in more specific searches and provide quick value to users.
If you need help writing these descriptions, we can guide you through our branding and graphic design or marketing strategy services.
5. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews influence trust and visibility. Ask satisfied clients to leave honest feedback, and always respond—whether the review is glowing or critical.
A polite, professional response shows you care about your customers and strengthens your brand reputation.
6. Post Updates Regularly
Just like social media, your Google profile allows posts. Share news, promotions, blog content, or seasonal updates. These posts help keep your listing active and informative.
If you need help creating content that supports your brand, we can help build your voice across platforms.
Don’t Forget Mobile and Voice Search
Many local searches happen on mobile, and a growing number happen through voice. That means your Google Business Profile must be easy to find and accurate.
Voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant often pull answers directly from your listing. Keeping it updated increases your chances of being the first (and only) result.
Make Local SEO Work for You
Your Google Business Profile is more than just a listing—it is a key part of your customer’s journey. When optimized, it helps people find you, trust you, and choose you.
At Loop Marketing, we help businesses improve their local visibility with smart, strategic SEO. Whether you need help setting up your profile, writing better descriptions, or building reviews into your workflow, we are here to support your success.
Explore our SEO services to get started.