Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the single most important local SEO asset for service businesses. It's your digital storefront, appearing in Google Maps, local search results, and the Google 3-pack that shows above organic results.
Businesses with optimized Google Business Profiles get 7x more website clicks and 5x more calls than those with incomplete or unoptimized profiles. Yet 56% of local businesses haven't claimed their listing, and 80% of those who have claimed it aren't optimizing it properly.
Why Google Business Profile Matters More Than Ever
Local Pack Dominance: The Google 3-pack (the three businesses shown in the map section) captures 44% of all clicks for local searches. If you're not in that pack, you're invisible to nearly half of potential customers.
Zero-Click Searches: 25% of Google searches now result in zero clicks because users get all the information they need from the Business Profile (phone number, hours, directions, reviews). Your profile IS your website for these searchers.
Mobile-First World: 76% of people who search for something nearby on their smartphone visit a business within 24 hours, and 28% of those searches result in a purchase. Google Business Profile is optimized for mobile-first discovery.
Complete Setup Guide
### Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Business
How to claim:
1. Go to google.com/business
2. Search for your business name
3. If it exists, click 'Claim this business'
4. If not, click 'Add your business'
5. Choose verification method (postcard, phone, email, or instant)
Verification tips:
- Postcard takes 5-14 days but is most common
- Phone/email verification available for some categories
- Instant verification available if you're verified in Google Search Console
- Don't create duplicate listings if your business already exists
- Use your actual business name (don't stuff keywords)
- Incorrect: 'Joe's Plumbing - Best Plumber in Boston'
- Correct: 'Joe's Plumbing' or 'Joe's Plumbing & Heating' (if that's your DBA)
- Keyword stuffing can get you suspended
- Choose the most specific category that describes your business
- Examples: 'Plumber', 'HVAC Contractor', 'Roofing Contractor', 'Real Estate Agency'
- This heavily influences what searches you appear for
- Add all relevant sub-services
- Plumber might add: 'Emergency Plumbing Service', 'Water Heater Installation', 'Drain Cleaning Service'
- More categories = appear for more search terms
- Front-load with your primary keywords
- Include services, service areas, and what makes you unique
- Mention years in business, certifications, specializations
- Don't stuff keywords unnaturally
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Step 2: Complete Every Section (100% Profile Completion)
Google rewards complete profiles with better rankings. Fill out every single field:
Business Name:
- Use your actual business name (don't stuff keywords)
- Incorrect: 'Joe's Plumbing - Best Plumber in Boston'
- Correct: 'Joe's Plumbing' or 'Joe's Plumbing & Heating' (if that's your DBA)
- Keyword stuffing can get you suspended
- Choose the most specific category that describes your business
- Examples: 'Plumber', 'HVAC Contractor', 'Roofing Contractor', 'Real Estate Agency'
- This heavily influences what searches you appear for
- Add all relevant sub-services
- Plumber might add: 'Emergency Plumbing Service', 'Water Heater Installation', 'Drain Cleaning Service'
- More categories = appear for more search terms
- Front-load with your primary keywords
- Include services, service areas, and what makes you unique
- Mention years in business, certifications, specializations
- Don't stuff keywords unnaturally
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Primary Category (Most Important Ranking Factor):
- Choose the most specific category that describes your business
- Examples: 'Plumber', 'HVAC Contractor', 'Roofing Contractor', 'Real Estate Agency'
- This heavily influences what searches you appear for
- Add all relevant sub-services
- Plumber might add: 'Emergency Plumbing Service', 'Water Heater Installation', 'Drain Cleaning Service'
- More categories = appear for more search terms
- Front-load with your primary keywords
- Include services, service areas, and what makes you unique
- Mention years in business, certifications, specializations
- Don't stuff keywords unnaturally
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Additional Categories (Add 5-9 Secondary Categories):
- Add all relevant sub-services
- Plumber might add: 'Emergency Plumbing Service', 'Water Heater Installation', 'Drain Cleaning Service'
- More categories = appear for more search terms
- Front-load with your primary keywords
- Include services, service areas, and what makes you unique
- Mention years in business, certifications, specializations
- Don't stuff keywords unnaturally
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Business Description (750 Characters Max):
- Front-load with your primary keywords
- Include services, service areas, and what makes you unique
- Mention years in business, certifications, specializations
- Don't stuff keywords unnaturally
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Example:
"ABC Plumbing has served Philadelphia and surrounding areas since 1998. We specialize in emergency plumbing repairs, water heater installation, drain cleaning, and sewer line repair. Our licensed, insured plumbers are available 24/7 for emergency service. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing, same-day service, and 100% customer satisfaction. Family-owned and operated, we treat every home like our own."
Service Areas:
- Add all zip codes or cities you serve
- Be specific (helps ranking in those areas)
- Don't claim areas you don't actually serve
- Add up to 20 service areas
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Hours of Operation:
- Set regular hours for each day
- Mark special hours for holidays
- Indicate 24/7 service if applicable
- Update hours immediately if they change
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Contact Information:
- Use a local phone number (not toll-free)
- Add website URL (drives traffic)
- Consider adding appointment booking URL
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Attributes (Critical for Conversion):
Select all that apply:
- Women-owned business
- Veteran-owned business
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Online appointments
- Free estimates
- Emergency service
- Same-day service
- Financing available
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Photo Optimization Strategy
Photos are the #1 engagement driver. Businesses with 100+ photos get 520% more calls and 1,065% more website clicks than average.
### Photo Types You Need
Exterior Photos (10+ photos):
- Front of building from street view
- Entrance with signage visible
- Parking area
- Different angles and times of day
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Team Photos (20+ photos):
- Individual headshots of all staff
- Team photos in uniform
- Staff working (shows professionalism)
- Owner/founder photo (builds trust)
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Work Photos (50+ photos):
- Before/after comparisons (highest engagement)
- Work in progress shots
- Completed projects
- Equipment and vehicles with branding
- Different types of jobs you do
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Identity Photos:
- Logo (first photo shown)
- Cover photo (1080x608 px minimum)
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Photo Best Practices
- Upload high-resolution images (720px minimum width)
- Use actual photos, not stock images
- Add geotagging data if possible
- Name files descriptively before uploading
- Upload new photos weekly (shows you're active)
- Remove old/outdated photos
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Review Management Strategy
Reviews are the #1 ranking factor for local pack results. Here's how to systematically generate and manage them:
### How to Get More Reviews
Timing is Everything:
- Ask immediately after job completion (within 2 hours)
- Automate review requests via SMS/email
- Send when customer is most satisfied
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Make it Easy:
- Send direct link to your Google review page
- Short URL format: g.page/[your-business]/review
- Include in email signatures, invoices, receipts
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Review Request Templates:
SMS: "Hi [Name], thanks for choosing ABC Plumbing! If you're happy with our service, we'd really appreciate a Google review: [link]. Takes just 30 seconds. - Joe"
Email: More detailed with specific work done and how review helps small business.
Incentives (Carefully):
- You CANNOT offer payment or discounts for reviews (against Google policy)
- You CAN enter reviewers in a random drawing
- You CAN offer an incentive for any review (not just positive ones)
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Review Response Strategy
Respond to EVERY review within 24 hours (ideally within 2 hours):
5-Star Review Response Template:
"Thank you so much for the kind words, [Name]! We're thrilled we could help with your [specific service]. [Personalized comment about their review]. We look forward to serving you again in the future. - [Your Name]"
1-3 Star Review Response Template:
"We're sorry we didn't meet your expectations, [Name]. [Acknowledge specific complaint]. We'd like to make this right. Please call us at [phone] so we can resolve this. We appreciate the feedback and will use it to improve. - [Your Name]"
Why Responses Matter:
- Shows you care about customers
- Improves rankings (engagement signal)
- Include keywords naturally in responses
- Potential customers read your responses
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Dealing with Negative Reviews
Fake/Competitor Reviews:
1. Flag as inappropriate in Google
2. Report via Google Business support
3. Provide evidence it's fake
4. Be persistent (follow up weekly)
Legitimate Negative Reviews:
1. Respond professionally and empathetically
2. Take conversation offline (phone/email)
3. Try to resolve and ask them to update review
4. Don't get defensive or argumentative
Google Posts Strategy
Posts show up directly in your Business Profile and can include CTAs, offers, and updates.
### Post Types
Offer Posts:
- Special discounts or promotions
- Include start/end dates
- Add coupon code
- Strong CTA button
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Update Posts:
- Company news
- New services
- Awards or certifications
- Seasonal tips
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Event Posts:
- Open houses
- Webinars
- Community events you're attending
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Product/Service Posts:
- Highlight specific services
- Explain benefits
- Include pricing if possible
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Posting Best Practices
- Post 2-3x per week minimum
- Include high-quality images
- Use relevant keywords naturally
- Add strong CTAs (Book Now, Call Now, Learn More)
- Keep text concise (100-300 words)
- Posts expire after 7 days (keep fresh content flowing)
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Advanced Optimization Tactics
### Q&A Section Optimization
Proactively Add FAQs:
- Don't wait for customers to ask questions
- Add 10-15 common questions yourself
- Include keywords in questions and answers
- Update with seasonal questions
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Examples:
- 'Do you offer emergency plumbing services?'
- 'What areas do you serve?'
- 'How much does [service] cost?'
- 'Are you licensed and insured?'
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Monitor and Answer Quickly:
- Get notifications for new questions
- Answer within 24 hours
- Anyone can answer (so competitors might)
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Products/Services Section
Add Individual Service Pages:
- Create separate entries for each service
- Include description, pricing, photos
- Link to service page on your website
- Use this to rank for specific service queries
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Booking Integration
Set Up Online Booking:
- Integrate with scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity, ServiceTitan)
- Add 'Book Appointment' button to profile
- Increases conversion by 30-40%
- Customers can book without calling
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Monitoring and Analytics
### Key Metrics to Track
Performance Metrics (in Google Business Profile Insights):
- Search queries (how people find you)
- Views (discovery vs. direct searches)
- Actions (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Photo views and comparisons to competitors
- Call tracking (where calls come from)
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
What Good Numbers Look Like:
- 1,000+ profile views per month (varies by market)
- 5%+ of views result in actions
- Discovery searches > direct searches (appearing in searches)
- Growing month-over-month
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Competitive Analysis
How to Spy on Competitors:
- Search your target keywords
- Note who's in the 3-pack
- Analyze their profiles (photos, reviews, categories, posts)
- Identify gaps you can exploit
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
What to Look For:
- How many reviews do they have? (You need more)
- How often do they post? (Post more)
- What categories do they use? (Use same + more)
- What keywords are in their description?
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Common Mistakes That Kill Rankings
### Mistake 1: Keyword Stuffing Business Name
❌ 'Joe's Plumbing - Emergency Plumber - Best Plumber Boston'
✓ 'Joe's Plumbing'
Why: Google can suspend your listing for this
### Mistake 2: Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone)
Your profile says: '123 Main St, Boston, MA'
Your website says: '123 Main Street, Boston, Massachusetts'
Result: Hurts rankings. Keep identical everywhere.
### Mistake 3: Wrong Category
Don't choose a broad category when a specific one exists.
❌ 'Contractor' when you're specifically a 'Plumber'
✓ Choose the most specific primary category
### Mistake 4: Not Responding to Reviews
48% of customers won't use a business that doesn't respond to reviews.
### Mistake 5: Using Virtual Addresses
Google can detect mailboxes/virtual offices and may suspend you.
### Mistake 6: Creating Multiple Listings
One business = one listing. Duplicates get merged or suspended.
### Mistake 7: Not Updating Information
Changed hours? Moved? New phone? Update immediately.
Suspension Prevention & Recovery
### Common Suspension Reasons
- Keyword stuffing in business name
- Virtual office address
- Multiple listings for same location
- Fake reviews
- Business doesn't meet Google's guidelines
- Operates outside stated service areas
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### How to Recover from Suspension
1. Read the suspension reason carefully
2. Fix the violation
3. Request reinstatement via Google Business support
4. Provide documentation (license, proof of location, etc.)
5. Be patient (can take 2-4 weeks)
6. Follow up weekly if no response
Local SEO Beyond Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile doesn't exist in isolation. Strengthen it by:
Building Citations:
- List on Yelp, Facebook, BBB, Angi, industry directories
- Keep NAP identical across all platforms
- Claim listings on Bing Places, Apple Maps
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Getting Backlinks:
- Local news mentions
- Chamber of commerce membership
- Sponsorships
- Partnerships with related businesses
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Creating Location Pages on Your Website:
- Dedicated page for each service area
- Embed your Google Business Profile
- Include local landmarks and neighborhoods
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Automation Tools
Managing Google Business Profile manually is time-consuming. These tools help:
Review Management:
- Fixr AI: Automated review requests and response suggestions
- Podium: SMS-based review requests
- BirdEye: Multi-platform review management
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Posting Automation:
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts in advance
- Buffer: Multi-platform posting
- Fixr AI: AI-generated posts based on your business
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Analytics:
- GatherUp: Advanced insights and competitor tracking
- Whitespark: Local SEO tracking
- BrightLocal: Complete local SEO platform
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
The 90-Day Optimization Plan
### Month 1: Foundation
- Week 1: Claim and verify listing
- Week 2: Complete 100% of profile sections
- Week 3: Upload 50+ photos
- Week 4: Set up automated review requests
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Month 2: Content & Reviews
- Week 1: Generate first 10 reviews
- Week 2: Add 10 Q&A entries
- Week 3: Start posting 3x per week
- Week 4: Add products/services section
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
### Month 3: Optimization & Monitoring
- Week 1: Analyze insights and adjust strategy
- Week 2: Expand categories and service areas
- Week 3: A/B test different photos
- Week 4: Implement booking integration
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Measuring Success
Track these KPIs monthly:
Rankings:
- Position in 3-pack for your main keywords
- Number of keywords you rank for
- Improvement month-over-month
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Engagement:
- Profile views (should increase 10%+ monthly)
- Search vs. discovery ratio
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, directions)
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Reviews:
- Number of new reviews per month (target: 5+ minimum)
- Average star rating (maintain 4.5+)
- Review response rate (should be 100%)
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Conversion:
- Calls from Google Business Profile
- Website clicks
- Direction requests
- Appointment bookings
Conclusion
Google Business Profile optimization isn't a one-time setup—it's an ongoing strategy. The businesses that dominate local search are those that consistently post updates, generate reviews, respond to customers, and keep their profiles fresh.
The work is worth it: A fully optimized profile can generate 20-40% of your total leads and costs $0 in advertising spend. While your competitors are paying $50-200 per lead on Google Ads, you're getting free, highly qualified leads from the local pack.
Start with the basics (claim, complete, photos, reviews), then expand into advanced tactics (posts, Q&A, booking integration). Track your results monthly and continuously optimize based on what works.
The businesses winning local search in 2025 aren't necessarily the biggest or oldest—they're the ones who master Google Business Profile optimization.
Tags:Google My BusinessLocal SEOSEOLead GenerationReviews