Pest Control
How to Grow Your Google Business Profile Audience
Danny Leibrandt
Monday, November 11, 2024
A well-optimized Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most effective tools for local businesses to attract customers and increase visibility. But having a profile isn’t enough—you need to actively grow your audience to maximize its impact. Whether you’re a contractor, a pest control company, or any other local business, expanding your Google Business Profile audience can drive more traffic, calls, and leads.
Here’s how you can grow your Google Business Profile audience and stand out in local search results.
1. Fully Optimize Your Google Business Profile
The foundation of a successful GBP is proper optimization. If your profile is incomplete or inconsistent, it won’t attract as much attention from potential customers or search engines.
Steps to Optimize Your GBP:
Fill out all sections, including business name, address, phone number (NAP), website, and hours of operation.
Add a compelling business description that highlights your services and includes relevant keywords.
Use high-quality images of your business, team, and services.
Pro Tip: Ensure your information is consistent across all online directories to avoid confusion and improve rankings.
2. Post Regular Updates
Google Business Profile allows you to post updates, which can include promotions, events, new services, or general business news. These posts keep your audience engaged and signal to Google that your business is active.
What to Post:
Announcements: “We’re now offering weekend pest control services!”
Special Offers: “10% off termite inspections this month.”
Helpful Tips: “How to keep ants out of your home this summer.”
Pro Tip: Use clear calls-to-action (CTAs) like “Call now” or “Learn more” in your posts.
3. Encourage Customer Reviews
Reviews are one of the most influential factors for potential customers and a major ranking signal for GBP. A steady stream of positive reviews can significantly boost your audience and credibility.
How to Get More Reviews:
Ask satisfied customers for reviews after completing a job.
Send follow-up emails with a direct link to your Google review page.
Offer excellent customer service to encourage organic reviews.
Pro Tip: Respond to all reviews—positive and negative—to show you value customer feedback.
4. Use Photos and Videos to Attract Attention
Visual content is a powerful way to engage users and grow your audience. Profiles with more photos tend to receive more clicks, calls, and direction requests.
What to Include:
Photos of your team at work.
Before-and-after shots of completed projects.
Short videos showcasing your services or customer testimonials.
Pro Tip: Update your photos regularly to keep your profile fresh and engaging.
5. Leverage Q&A to Address Common Questions
The Q&A section on your GBP allows customers to ask questions, but you can also use it proactively to add value. Answer common questions about your services to build trust and provide helpful information.
Examples of Questions to Answer:
“Do you offer free estimates?”
“What areas do you serve?”
“How soon can you respond to a pest control emergency?”
Pro Tip: Regularly monitor this section and answer promptly to maintain a professional image.
6. Target Relevant Keywords
Adding relevant keywords to your GBP description, posts, and reviews can help your profile appear in more searches. Focus on terms that your target audience is likely to use.
Examples of Local Keywords:
“Affordable pest control near me.”
“Emergency rodent removal in [city].”
“Best contractor for home repairs in [city].”
Pro Tip: Avoid keyword stuffing. Use natural language that flows well while including keywords strategically.
7. Promote Your GBP on Other Channels
Growing your GBP audience isn’t limited to Google itself. Promote your profile across other online channels to drive traffic and engagement.
How to Promote Your Profile:
Add a link to your GBP in email signatures and newsletters.
Share your GBP link on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Include your GBP link on your website’s contact page or footer.
8. Track and Analyze Performance
Use the Google Business Profile Insights tool to monitor how users are interacting with your profile. Tracking performance helps you identify what’s working and where you can improve.
Metrics to Monitor:
Total views (Search and Maps).
Customer actions (calls, direction requests, website visits).
How customers found you (direct vs. discovery searches).
Pro Tip: Adjust your strategy based on insights. For example, if calls are low, experiment with more engaging posts or CTAs.
9. Build Local Citations and Backlinks
Citations and backlinks from other local directories or websites can help boost your GBP visibility. These signals reinforce your authority and improve your chances of ranking in the local pack.
Where to Build Citations:
Directories like Yelp, Angi, and local chambers of commerce.
Sponsor local events or partner with community organizations to earn backlinks.
10. Stay Consistent and Active
The key to growing your Google Business Profile audience is consistency. Regular updates, active engagement, and a focus on providing value will ensure your profile remains relevant and visible.
Final Thoughts
Growing your Google Business Profile audience takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By optimizing your profile, encouraging reviews, and consistently engaging with your audience, you can improve your visibility, attract more customers, and grow your business.
At Pest Control SEO, I’ve helped businesses implement these strategies to drive real results. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve your existing profile, focusing on your GBP can make a significant impact on your local SEO success.