Why Your Google Business Profile is One of Your Most Valuable Assets
At Soud Marketing, we’ve always said that outside of your craft, your Google Business Profile (GBP) might just be the most important business asset you own. Why? Because in today’s digital-first world, your profile often becomes your first impression—and the key to building trust, credibility, and visibility with potential customers.
In a recent conversation, our founder Ronnie Soud and SEO/content strategist Kacie Conant broke down exactly why every business should be leveraging Google Business Profile, and how to optimize it for long-term growth.
What Is Google Business Profile?
Think of Google Business Profile as your modern-day storefront sign—except instead of hanging above your door, it shows up directly in Google search and maps results. It’s a free listing that allows you to manage critical details like:
- Business name, hours, and contact info
- Photos and videos
- Products and services
- Events, offers, and posts
- Customer reviews
If you don’t claim and optimize your profile, Google will piece together information about your business from around the web. But when you take ownership, you’re in control of how your business shows up to potential customers.
Why It’s More Important Than Ever
Your website used to be your first impression—now, it’s your Google Business Profile. When someone searches for “plumber near me” or “best restaurants in Jacksonville,” the map listings dominate the page.
Even in the age of AI, people still turn to Google for verified, local business information. Unlike ChatGPT or other tools, Google requires a simple verification process that adds credibility and trust. That trust is amplified by reviews, photos, and up-to-date details—helping customers decide to call you, visit you, or buy from you.
Key Benefits of an Optimized Google Business Profile
- Higher Visibility – Map listings take prime real estate on search results, often above organic listings
- Built-In SEO Power – Categories, descriptions, and keywords help your profile rank in local searches
- Trust & Credibility – Photos, videos, and reviews make your business feel legitimate and customer-friendly
- Leads – Many businesses generate phone calls, messages, and directions directly from their listing
- Reputation Management – Responding to reviews shows transparency and strong customer service
How to Optimize Your Profile
Optimizing your GBP isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. It requires upfront setup and ongoing maintenance to keep Google (and your customers) engaged. Here’s how:
1. Claim & Verify Your Listing
Make sure your business info (name, address, phone number) is accurate and consistent across the web.
2. Complete Every Section
List all services or products, add categories, write a keyword-rich business description, and link social profiles.
3. Post Regularly
Share offers, events, or service updates. Weekly is ideal, but even twice a month makes a difference.
4. Add Photos & Videos
Use the same content you share on social media—Google values fresh activity over polished production.
5. Encourage & Respond to Reviews
Positive reviews build trust, while thoughtful responses (even to negative ones) showcase strong customer care.
6. Monitor & Adjust
Check your performance tab monthly. Track phone calls, profile views, and keywords to see what’s working.
The Bigger Picture: Consistency Across the Web
Your Google Business Profile doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Google cross-checks your information with your website, social media, and even other directories like Apple Business Connect or Yelp.
That’s why NAP consistency—name, address, and phone number—is critical. If your details aren’t aligned, Google loses confidence in showing your listing.
Reviews: The Secret to Converting Leads
Google reviews aren’t just stars—they’re stories. Pairing reviews with photos or project details gives potential customers confidence that you can deliver. And since 95% of consumers read reviews before making a purchase, this feature alone can be a game-changer.
Final Takeaway
Your Google Business Profile is free, powerful, and often overlooked. With just a little time invested upfront—and ongoing updates—you can generate leads, build credibility, and strengthen your overall digital presence.
At Soud Marketing, we help businesses claim, optimize, and manage their profiles as part of a larger SEO and digital marketing strategy. If you’d like to see how your profile is performing, reach out today for a complimentary digital presence report. Contact us here