How to Outrank 99% of Local Competitors | Google Business Profile Tier List

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) to outrank local competitors. Based on insights from the Whitespark video, we will break down key areas of the GBP that require attention and how to effectively enhance them for better local search visibility.

Step 1: Optimize Your Primary Category

• Choose the Right Primary Category: Your primary category should accurately represent your business. This is crucial for local searches.
• Research Competitors: Look at what categories similar businesses are using and select one that fits best.
• Regularly Update: If your business model changes, ensure your primary category reflects that.

Step 2: Add Additional Categories

• Select Relevant Additional Categories: You can add up to 9 additional categories. Choose categories that complement your primary category to broaden your reach.
• Avoid Overloading: Only select categories that are relevant to your services to prevent confusion.

Step 3: Include an Appointment URL

• Add Appointment Link: If applicable, include a URL that directs customers to schedule appointments.
• Make It Easy: Ensure the link is user-friendly and directs to a reliable booking system.

Step 4: Define Service Areas

• Specify Service Areas: Clearly outline the geographic areas your business serves.
• Use Accurate Locations: This helps Google understand where you operate, enhancing local search results.

Step 5: Update Business Hours

• Keep Hours Current: Make sure your business hours are accurate, including special holiday hours.
• Highlight Special Hours: If you have different hours for holidays, make sure to list those as well.

Step 6: Manage Products

• List Products in the NMX: Use the Google Business Profile's product feature to showcase what you offer.
• Merchant Center Integration: If you use an e-commerce platform, connect it to your GBP for better visibility.

Step 7: Fight Against Spam

• Monitor Your Profile: Regularly check for spammy listings or reviews that could damage your reputation.
• Report Spam: Use Google’s tools to report any fraudulent activities.

Step 8: Include Your Website URL

• Link to Your Website: Ensure your website is linked correctly to provide customers with more information about your services.
• Optimize Your Website: Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and provides a good user experience.

Step 9: Utilize Google Posts

• Regularly Post Updates: Use Google Posts to share news, offers, or events related to your business.
• Engage Customers: Posts can help keep your audience engaged and informed.

Step 10: Add Photos and Videos

• Visual Content: Upload high-quality images and videos of your business, products, and services.
• Optimize for Engagement: Geotag images to improve local relevance.

Step 11: Geotag Your Images

• Include Location Data: When uploading images, use geotagging to associate them with your business location.
• Enhance Local SEO: This helps boost your visibility in local searches.

Step 12: List Your Services

• Detail Your Services: Clearly describe the services you offer in your GBP.
• Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords to help with search visibility.

Step 13: Provide Your Address

• List Your Physical Address: Ensure your address is accurate and consistent across all platforms.
• Local Relevance: This aids in local search rankings.

Step 14: Write a Compelling Description

• Craft a Business Description: Your description should include keywords and provide a clear overview of your business.
• Limit Length: Keep it concise while ensuring it captures the essence of your offerings.

Step 15: Include Social Profile Links

• Connect Social Media Accounts: Link your business’s social media profiles to your GBP.
• Increase Engagement: This can drive traffic to your social accounts and foster community interaction.

Step 16: Utilize SMS/WhatsApp

• Add Messaging Options: If applicable, enable SMS or WhatsApp for customer inquiries.
• Prompt Responses: This can enhance customer service and engagement.

Step 17: Encourage and Manage Reviews

• Solicit Reviews: Encourage customers to leave reviews on your GBP.
• Respond to Reviews: Engage with customers by responding to reviews, showing appreciation or addressing concerns.

Step 18: Use Keywords in Review Responses

• Incorporate Keywords: When responding to reviews, include relevant keywords to reinforce your business's focus.
• Engage Authentically: Ensure responses are genuine and tailored to each review.

Step 19: Utilize Attributes

• Add Relevant Attributes: Attributes such as "wheelchair accessible" or "outdoor seating" can help attract the right customers.
• Stay Updated: Regularly review and update attributes as needed.

Step 20: Optimize Your Business Name

• Use Your Real Business Name: Ensure your business name on GBP matches your actual business name without keyword stuffing.
• Maintain Consistency: This helps with brand recognition and search visibility.

Conclusion

By following these steps to optimize your Google Business Profile, you can significantly improve your local search rankings and visibility. Focus on maintaining accuracy and engagement to attract and retain customers. Next, consider diving deeper into other local SEO strategies to further enhance your online presence.