(Image Source: Deposit Photos)
In the competitive world of trades, standing out is crucial. Whether you're a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or any other tradie, your reputation and visibility directly impact your success.
One of the most effective ways to boost your business is by leveraging Google Business Profile, a service within Google that helps local businesses appear in search results. Here’s how to maximise Google Business Profile for your trade business in Australia.
Want to learn more about winning more clients? Check out our complete guide to marketing for tradies!
Also known as Google My Business, it is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps.
When potential customers search for services you offer, having a well-optimised Google My Business listing increases the likelihood that your business appears prominently in the search results.
The first step is to claim your listing. If you haven’t already done so, go to the Google Business Profile website and sign in with your Google account.
Follow the prompts to claim your business. Google will need to verify your business, usually by sending a postcard with a verification code to your business address. Once verified, you can start optimising your listing.
A complete business profile is essential. Fill out all the details about your business, including:
Selecting the correct categories helps Google understand what your business offers. Be specific.
For instance, if you’re a plumber, choose “Plumber” rather than a generic term like “Tradesman”. You can add secondary categories to cover additional services you offer.
Your business description should clearly state what you do, your unique selling points, and why customers should choose you. Make it engaging, but keep it concise, aiming for around 750 characters.
Photos play a significant role in attracting customers. Upload high-quality images of your work, team, and business premises. Regularly update your photos to keep your profile fresh and engaging.
Reviews are critical for building trust and improving your local search ranking. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your Google listing. Respond to reviews promptly, whether they are positive or negative.
Thank customers for positive feedback and address any issues raised in negative reviews professionally and constructively.
Google Posts allows you to share updates, offers, events, and news directly on your Google Places listing. These posts can enhance your visibility and engage potential customers.
For example, you can post about a special discount on emergency services or share photos of a recently completed project.
Google My Business provides insights into how customers find your listing, what actions they take, and other valuable data. Use this information to refine your marketing strategy.
For instance, if you notice most customers find you through mobile searches, ensure your website is mobile-friendly and your contact information is easily accessible.
Regularly update your Google Places listing to reflect any changes in your business, such as new services, updated hours, or changes in contact information. Consistency is key to maintaining a high ranking in local search results.
Beyond Google My Business, consider using other Google tools to enhance your online presence. Google Ads can drive targeted traffic to your business, while Google Analytics can provide deeper insights into your website’s performance.
Maximising Google My Business is a powerful way to enhance your visibility, credibility, and customer engagement as a tradie in Australia. By following these steps, you can ensure your business stands out in local searches, attracts more customers, and ultimately grows your trade business.
Keep your listing active, engage with your customers, and stay updated with Google’s features to make the most of this valuable tool.
If you want to bolster your online credibility, another platform you can use is ServiceSeeking.com.au. Join us today and build a stellar reputation for your business!