10 Tips to Maximize Your Google Business Profile in Wollongong

Alright, Wollongong business owners, let’s talk leads! You know that little Google map listing that pops up when people search for your business? Yep, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is a goldmine for attracting new customers right here in the Gong. But are you using it to its full potential?

As a digital marketing nerd (in the best way possible!), I’ve seen first-hand how a well-optimised GBP can seriously boost your leads. So, let’s ditch the jargon and get straight to the 10 tips you need to know to make your GBP shine brighter than the sunrise over City Beach:

1. Claim & Verify (Duh, but Essential!)

• First things first, make sure you’ve actually claimed and verified your GBP. This is your digital storefront, and you need to own it! If you haven’t, Google will guide you through the process.
• Once you’ve claimed your Google Business Profile, it’s crucial to verify it. Verification typically involves receiving a postcard with a unique code from Google, which you then enter into your account. This step establishes your legitimacy in the eyes of potential customers and search engines alike.
• A verified listing not only boosts your credibility but also enhances your local SEO efforts. Listings that have been verified tend to rank higher in local searches, which means more visibility for your business! So, don’t skip this step; it sets the foundation for everything else you’ll do on your GBP.

2. Complete EVERY Section

• Don’t leave any blanks! Fill in every detail, from your business hours and website to your phone number and address. The more info, the better. Google loves a complete profile, and so do potential customers.
• Highlighting your key offerings can help searchers understand what sets you apart. Add descriptions of your services or products, and make sure to use keywords that resonate with your target audience. For example, if you’re a café in Wollongong, include terms like “local coffee” or “fresh pastries,” as these are likely search queries.
• Additionally, utilize the “Attributes” section. This invaluable feature allows you to specify notable aspects of your business, such as whether you’re wheelchair accessible, offer outdoor seating, or are LGBTQ+ friendly. These details can sway potential customers looking for specific features when comparing options.
• Ensure that your hours of operation are up-to-date, particularly during holidays or special events. Google often displays this information prominently, and incorrect timings can frustrate customers, leading to loss of business.

3. Nail Your Primary Category

• Selecting the right primary category is critical because it directly influences your visibility in local search results. If you run a bakery in Wollongong but categorize yourself as a general “café,” you may miss out on customers specifically searching for “bakery” or “fresh baked goods.” This categorized specificity helps Google connect your profile with the most relevant searches, making it essential for local SEO.
• Don’t forget about secondary categories! While your primary category defines your main offering, secondary categories can highlight additional services or products. If your business also serves brunch or sells gourmet coffee alongside pastries, including these as secondary categories can further enhance your profile’s relevance to potential customers looking for a more comprehensive offering.
• Take a peek at similar businesses in your area. Identify which categories they use and consider their customer base. This insight doesn’t just help with your own category selection but can also spark ideas on unique offerings or services you might want to include in your business strategy.
• Finally, keep an eye on trends and adjust as needed. The market and consumer preferences evolve, and so should your Google Business Profile. Regularly reviewing and updating your categories could give your

4. Use High-Quality Photos & Videos

• People are visual! Upload clear, bright, and professional photos of your business, products, and team. Even better, add short videos to showcase your services. Show off that awesome shop front or those delicious menu items!
• Highlight customer interactions and experiences by featuring candid images of your team serving customers or hosting events. These authentic moments help to create a relatable and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging potential clients to envision themselves at your business. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, and inviting visuals can significantly boost engagement with your profile!
• Consider introducing seasonal imagery to keep your profile fresh and relevant. Whether it’s showcasing holiday decorations, special menu items for summer, or themed outdoor seating arrangements, regularly updated visuals can catch the eye of viewers and demonstrate that your business is active and in touch with the community. This approach not only helps maintain interest but can also inspire customers to visit for special events or promotions!

5. Get Those Reviews Rolling!

• Positive reviews are social proof. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on your GBP. Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and friendly manner.
• Consider using incentives to motivate customers to share their positive experiences. A small discount on their next purchase or entry into a giveaway for leaving a review can encourage more customers to provide feedback. Just ensure the incentive is compliant with Google’s policies to maintain authenticity in your reviews.
• Regularly highlight and showcase customer testimonials in your posts or updates on your profile. By sharing glowing reviews and stories from satisfied customers, you not only validate your exceptional service but also create compelling content that can resonate with potential clients, making them more likely to choose your business over competitors.

6. Regularly Post Updates

• Treat your GBP like a mini social media platform. Share updates about new products, special offers, upcoming events, or even just a behind-the-scenes glimpse of your business. Keep it fresh!
• Utilize the “Posts” feature on your GBP to spotlight any promotions or community engagement initiatives. Sharing your participation in local events, charity drives, or collaborations with other businesses can enhance your visibility while showcasing your commitment to the Wollongong community. This not only keeps your profile dynamic but also fosters a sense of connection with local residents, encouraging them to support you.
• Experiment with various content formats, such as videos or polls, to engage your audience. Short videos showcasing tutorials, customer testimonials, or day-in-the-life segments can captivate potential clients and offer insights into your business’s personality. Polls can encourage customer interaction by asking them about their preferences, which not only drives engagement but also provides valuable insights into what your audience is looking for. Mixing it up keeps your content interesting and encourages regular visits to your profile!

7. Use Google Posts for Promotions

• Google Posts are a fantastic way to highlight promotions, events, and announcements. They appear directly in your GBP and can really grab attention.
• Take advantage of different post types available within Google Posts, such as event promotions, offers, and more. Tailoring your content to fit these specific formats can increase engagement rates and attract more clicks. For instance, if you’re hosting a workshop or a special sale, ensure the details are crisp and eye-catching, boosting the likelihood that viewers will take action.
• Regularly update your posts to keep the content relevant and timely. Google prioritizes fresh content, so make it a habit to refresh your promotions and announcements every few weeks. By maintaining a dynamic profile filled with the latest information, you not only enhance your visibility in search results but also reassure potential customers that your business is active and engaged with the community.

8. Answer Questions Promptly

• People can ask questions directly on your GBP. Monitor these questions and answer them quickly. This shows you’re responsive and engaged.
• Be proactive in addressing frequently asked questions by adding them to the Q&A section of your Google Business Profile. This not only provides immediate answers for potential customers but also saves you time in the long run. Including key information like business hours, service offerings, and common inquiries about your products can enhance user experience and reduce the number of duplicate questions.
• Encourage satisfied customers to leave questions and reviews on your profile. Engaging with these reviews—whether positive or negative—illustrates that you value customer feedback and appreciate their interaction. A prompt and thoughtful response can convert casual browsers into loyal customers, boosting your reputation and encouraging others to share their experiences as well.

9. Add Relevant Attributes

• Attributes are those little details like “Wheelchair Accessible,” “Free Wi-Fi,” or “Outdoor Seating.” They help customers quickly understand your business offerings. If you have them, use them!

10. Keep Your Information Consistent

• Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across your website, GBP, and other online directories. This helps Google verify your business and improves your local SEO.

Why This Matters for Wollongong Businesses:

• Local Search: When people search for “cafes near me” or “plumbers Wollongong,” your GBP is what they see. This is your chance to stand out.
• Mobile-Friendly: Many local searches happen on mobile devices. A well-optimised GBP ensures your business looks great on any screen.
• Direct Contact: Your GBP provides easy access to your phone number, website, and directions, making it simple for customers to connect with you.

So, there you have it! 10 actionable tips to boost your leads using your Google Business Profile. Start implementing these today, and watch your Wollongong business thrive!