Why Google Business Profile (GBP) is Important for Local Business Owners
If you own a business in Middlebury, Elkhart County, or anywhere in Indiana, your Google Business Profile (GBP) can be your most powerful marketing tool. Over 97% of consumers search online for local businesses, and a properly optimized GBP ensures your business appears at the top of search results and Google Maps.
This guide will show you exactly how to make your profile work for your business—whether you’re a plumber, restaurant owner, or boutique store.
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is a free listing that shows your business name, location, hours, reviews, photos, and more in Google Search and Google Maps.
It helps customers:
- Find your business near them
- See your services and hours
- Read reviews before choosing you
- Contact you directly
For Indiana businesses, having a fully optimized profile can increase website visits by up to 45% and phone calls by 30%, according to BrightLocal.
A well established Google Business Profile makes your small business easier to find and more credible.
Riley Catalano
CEO of Favze
Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Profile
- Go to Google Business Profile
- Search for your business and claim it
- Verify your listing via postcard, phone, or email
Verification is essential. Google prioritizes verified businesses in local search results.
Step 2: Complete Every Section
- Business Name: Use your real business name exactly as it appears offline.
- Address & Phone: Ensure NAP (name, address, phone) is consistent across your website, directory listings, and social media.
- Hours of Operation: Keep them updated for holidays and special events.
- Categories: Choose the most relevant primary and secondary categories (e.g., Plumbing, Digital Marketing, HVAC Services).
- Business Description: Write a 750-character description with local keywords, like:
“Favze is a digital marketing agency serving small businesses in Middlebury and Elkhart County, helping local businesses grow through SEO, social media, and paid advertising.”
Step 3: Add Photos and Videos
- Upload high-quality images of your team, office, products, or completed projects
- Include a short video (30–60 seconds) introducing your business
- Listings with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites (Google)
Step 4: Collect and Respond to Reviews
- Encourage happy customers to leave reviews
- Respond promptly and professionally to both positive and negative feedback
- Businesses that respond to reviews are seen as more trustworthy and rank higher in search
Example: A local Elkhart HVAC company saw a 25% increase in calls after actively managing reviews.
Step 5: Use Google Posts
Google Posts allow you to:
- Share promotions, events, or new products
- Add a CTA (“Call Now,” “Book Online”)
- Keep your profile fresh and active
Profiles that post regularly are twice as likely to engage customers than inactive listings.
Step 6: Track Insights
Google provides analytics for your GBP, showing:
- How customers find your listing
- Where they are located
- Which actions they take (calls, directions, website visits)
Use this data to adjust your marketing strategy and improve results.
Work With Favze to Dominate Local Search
Optimizing your Google Business Profile can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to. At Favze, we help Indiana businesses in Middlebury, Elkhart County, and beyond:
- Claim, verify, and optimize Google Business Profiles
- Generate more positive reviews and manage reputation
- Integrate local SEO strategies to rank higher on Google Maps and Search
Stop losing leads to competitors. Let Favze make your business the first choice for customers in your area.
Complete the form below to start your free consultation.
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