Is Google My Business (GMB) the same as a Google Business Profile (GBP)?
Yes; Google just changed the name. They are trying to make sure businesses are aware of the fact that Google is offering a ‘Business Profile’. This was also the case with ‘Google My Business’ but the name was somewhat confusing to businesses.
Why are Google Business profiles so valuable?
A Google business profile is the single most important local digital asset that any business has in local search.
People usually see your Google Business Profile before or instead of visiting your website. As such, people expect the information shown in a Google Business Profile to be correct. Infact, they look at any Google Business Profile as if it were a digital shop window, and then make a judgement on whether to call or visit the business.
An untidy, unmanaged Google Business Profile with poor reviews is like a dirty shop window. It does not fill people with confidence and says “we look closed”, or “we don’t care”.
Why is Google My Business (GMB) so important?
Google My Business (aka Google Business Profile) is so important because when customers search for local services in Google, the results shown are managed in Google My Business. Google My Business is where local businesses owners control their information to ensure it is correct and that they look good to customers. They can also respond to reviews and to monitor the performance of their Google Business Profile listing
Businesses that actively manage their Google My Business profile are rewarded with better performance and more customer enquiries.
What do people use Google Maps/Google My Business for?
People use Google/Google Maps to search for local businesses information and services. In essence, Google Business Profiles and Google Maps have replaced the traditional yellow pages.
Interestingly, people use Google Maps regularly to find information on businesses they already know such as opening times, directions or a telephone number. However, they also use Google Maps to search for local businesses they don’t know.
What are the main features in Google My Business / Google Business Profiles?
Google Business Profiles provide the core information about a business, namely: the business name, phone number, address, weblink and opening times. There is also the option to include short business descriptions and brand / product/ service images.
A key feature is also customer reviews.
Alongside the core features described above, there are a number of other features that truly help businesses stand out in local search including: Google Posts, Google Products, See What’s In Store (SWIS), Google Messenger, Google Adwords, Booking Links, Menus, Service Areas and more.
