[NEEDS BRIAN: your review note says this "probably needs an update". What should change? Also: the original linked to two articles that do not exist (adding your dealership to an existing GBP, and a separate-phone-number case). Those links were removed; the GBP suspension article now exists.]
Having a Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the easiest ways to help customers find your business online. Whether someone is searching for sheds, portable buildings, or your specific dealership, a GBP makes sure your business appears on Google Search and Maps. Even if you've never set up something like this before, don’t worry, it’s simple to start from scratch, and we’ll walk you through it step by step. Plus, if you run into any trouble, the BarnDealer support team is here to help. Let’s get your business online and in front of more customers!
How to Create a Google Business Profile
This article will walk you through starting a Google Business Profile from scratch. If you already have a Google Business Profile, check out one of our other articles:
How do I know if I have a Google Business Profile?
The easiest way to see if you have a Google Business Profile is by searching for your business on Google Maps. When you do this, type in your business name and address. Once you see the search results, find the map area and see if your building is listed. It will look similar to the images below.
IMPORTANT! Never make a second Google Business Profile. If you lose access, try to regain access. Creating a second GBP may cause both to be suspended and Google won't return your site in searches.
If you see that you already have a Google Business Profile, check out our article about Claiming Your Google Business Profile
Google requires that each Google Business Profile be unique. This means that you cannot have the same address or phone number used in two different Google Business Profiles. If you attempt to create another GBP for another business at the same address, Google may suspend both of your accounts.
If you need help, figuring out if your business has a Google Business Profile, our BarnDealer support team are here to help!
Step 1: Sign in to Google Business
Go to Google Business Profile or type in business.google.com in your browser.
Click "Manage Now" and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2: Enter Your Business Information
Business Name: Use the exact name of your business - the same name that's on your website. If your business is Paul's Portable Buildings, put that, not Old Hickory Buildings, etc.
Category: We have found that the best category to use is shed builder.
Location: Enter your business address. When asked to add a service area, choose any major towns in your delivery area.
Step 3: Add Contact Details
Phone number: Make sure the phone number you add is unique and matches your website. Google doesn't like if multiple Google Business Profiles have the same phone number so you need a separate phone number for each GBP.
Website URL: Use the domain for your website. Dealers who have their BarnDealer sites on their Google Business Profiles get 2-3 times more leads than dealers who have other websites linked!
Dealers who have their BarnDealer sites on their Google Business Profiles get 2-3 times more leads than dealers who have other websites linked! LINK YOUR WEBSITE TO YOUR GBP ASAP
Step 4: Verify Your Business
Google requires verification before your profile becomes visible. Common verification methods include:
Phone Call or Text: Google will send a code to your phone. This is typically the way that Google will ask you to verify your business if you are the one setting it up.
Video: You will need to create a two minute or under video showing Google that your business is real.
Making a Verification Video can be tricky because Google is very specific in what they ask for. We created another article to help you prepare and submit your verification video.
Step 5: Optimize Your Profile
To attract more customers, optimize your profile by:
Adding high-quality photos. Here's some ideas:
Your storefront/office
The signage with your business name from the road-view
Pictures of your lot
Pictures of a building you want to feature that you want customers to see
Updating business hours to reflect any changes.
Make sure your business hours are the same on your website and reflect when you have staff at the physical location
Writing a business description that highlights your unique offerings.
Google doesn't look in your business description for SEO keywords so make it sound natural and describes what your business does
Responding to customer reviews to build trust.
More reviews = more views
More responses to reviews shows that you care about your customers and you're likely to get more visitors!
Your business hours must be staffed hours. Don't put "24 hours" - Google may suspend your account!
Step 6: Keep Your Profile Updated
Regularly update business hours, contact info, and photos.
Use Google Posts to share promotions or updates.
Respond to questions in the Q&A section to assist potential customers.
Only make one change to your GBP at a time. If you change your Business Name, Phone Number, Address, Website, etc. all at once, Google may suspend your account for suspicious activity!
Final Thoughts
A well-managed Google Business Profile can significantly improve your visibility and customer engagement. Get started today by visiting Google Business Profile!
Do you already have a Google Business Profile and are having trouble getting it Verified or got Suspended? No worries! We can help with that as well!
Leveraging Google Business Profile for Local Success
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. This tool is crucial for local businesses as it enhances your visibility in 'near me' and 'nearby' search engine results, which are essential for attracting local traffic over competitors, including big box stores like Lowe's or Home Depot.
Mobile Example of Google Business Profile:
Desktop Example of Google Business Profile:
Understanding 'Near Me' and 'Nearby' Searches
'Near me' and 'nearby' searches are triggered when users look for services or products in their immediate geographic location. These searches prioritize local businesses over national chains, making it essential for local SEO. By optimizing your Google Business Profile, you enhance your chances of appearing in these searches, directly influencing foot traffic and local sales.
For instance, if you own a Shed Store in ExampleTown and someone in ExampleTown searches on Google for "sheds near me" or "sheds nearby," having a Google Business Profile significantly increases the likelihood that your Shed Store will appear in the search results.
Getting Started with Google Business Profile
To create or claim your Google Business Profile, visit Google My Business. Google will walk you through this process step by step. Here are a few helpful hints!
Enter Your Address Accurately: Use the exact address format as it is listed by Google to ensure accuracy and improve your local search ranking. For example, if you google search your address and you see that Google lists your address like:
123 Example St, Suite 200, Exampleland, IL 62701
Then you should enter your address into your Google Business Profile that exact same way. Even small deviations in the address formatting from the way Google lists your address can hurt your site's local search ranking and visibility. The following is an example of those small deviations:
123 Example Street, Suite #200, Exampleland, IL 62701
So, when we suggest using the exact address as it is listed by Google, we mean exact!Use a Unique Phone Number: You must use a phone number that is not already associated with a Google Business Profile. Google does not allow the same phone number to be associated with multiple Google Business Profiles.
Add Basic Business Information: Provide essential details such as your business name and the services you offer.
Verification Process: Google's verification is crucial as it confirms your business is legitimate and not fraudulent. This process may involve a phone call, text message, or video to verify your business and it can take a few weeks for Google to respond. Your Google Business Profile will not show up until verification is complete!
Tips for a Successful Google Business Profile
Optimize for Local Searches: Make sure all your business details are accurate and complete, including business hours and contact information.
Encourage Reviews: Positive reviews enhance credibility and improve your search ranking. Compare your review count with competitors. If you're behind you competitors in google reviews, it’s time to encourage happy customers to leave their feedback so you can be more competitive in the search results.
Verification Delays and Issues
Sometimes, verification by Google can take a long time or might not go through due to various issues. While this can be frustrating, please understand that these delays are outside yours/our control. We will do our best to support you through this process and are available to help with any concerns you might have.
By effectively using your Google Business Profile, you position your business to thrive in the local marketplace, gaining an edge over both local and national competitors.
Questions? Chat with us or email [email protected].