Your website isn’t the only thing potential customers see when they look for you online. In fact, it might not even be the first.
Your Google Business Profile often shows up before your website, especially in local searches. If someone types “plumber near me” or “web designer Bolingbrook,” it’s your profile—not your homepage—they see first.
If it’s not optimized, you’re missing out on a steady stream of calls, clicks, and paying clients.
Let’s fix that.
What Is a Google Business Profile?
Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free listing that appears when people search for your business or for services like yours. It shows:
- Your business name
- Address and contact info
- Website link
- Hours of operation
- Reviews
- Photos
- And more
It’s not just a basic directory. It’s your local storefront on the world’s biggest search engine.
Why Most Profiles Don’t Work
Most Google profiles are either incomplete, outdated, or totally neglected. When that happens, Google ranks you lower—and potential clients move on without calling.
Here’s what typically goes wrong:
- Your business name doesn’t match what’s on your website
- Hours are missing or inaccurate
- Photos are low-quality or outdated
- There are no recent reviews (or worse, unanswered bad ones)
- You haven’t posted any updates in months
- You’re using the wrong business category
Each of these sends a quiet but strong signal: This business might not be worth trusting.
What a Fully Optimized Profile Looks Like
An optimized profile does three big things:
It builds trust. It drives action. It improves your local SEO.
Here’s how to set yours up for success:
- Use your official business name (exact match to your website)
- Make sure address, phone number, and website are 100% correct
- Select the most accurate primary category (plus secondary if relevant)
- Write a keyword-rich, friendly business description
- Upload quality photos of your team, workspace, or services
- Post updates weekly (offers, blog posts, events, service announcements)
- Collect reviews regularly and reply to all of them—yes, even the critical ones
- Fill in hours of operation and service areas
- Actively use the Q&A section to answer common questions
Insider Tip from Jean:
“Most people completely ignore the ‘Posts’ feature. But Google actually rewards businesses that update their profile regularly. A quick weekly post can boost your visibility in local search—no ads required.”
Reviews Are Your Secret Weapon
Local customers trust reviews more than your website copy. That 4.9-star rating isn’t just vanity—it’s a conversion tool.
Encourage happy clients to leave reviews. Ask them personally, include a review link in your emails, or use an automated follow-up system.
And don’t stop there. Respond to every review—good, bad, or neutral. Thank people, clarify misunderstandings, and always stay professional.
It shows that you’re engaged, reliable, and real.
Use Keywords (But Keep It Human)
Google scans your business description and review content to decide when to show your listing. That’s why you should include local and service-based keywords—but write like a person, not a robot.
Bad example:
We are the best Bolingbrook marketing agency for web design, website strategy, social media, and digital marketing in Bolingbrook IL.
Better example:
At Marketing Solutions USA, we help Bolingbrook business owners simplify their marketing and attract more clients through high-converting websites and smart social media strategies.
Insider Tip from Jean:
“Think of your business description as your elevator pitch. Who do you help? What do you help them do? And why should they trust you over someone else?”
Check In Weekly
Your profile is not a “set it and forget it” tool. You should be updating and reviewing it regularly.
Here’s your weekly checklist:
- Post an update (a blog, tip, offer, or reminder)
- Respond to any new reviews
- Answer questions in the Q&A section
- Check your profile views, calls, and clicks in Insights
- Update holiday hours or services as needed
Set a 10-minute reminder each Monday. Small updates = long-term visibility.
How We Help Bolingbrook Businesses Own the Map
At Marketing Solutions USA, we optimize Google Business Profiles for local business owners who don’t have time to manage the details themselves.
We make sure your listing:
- Aligns perfectly with your brand and website
- Shows up in more local searches
- Converts searchers into paying customers
- Gets regular updates, posts, and reviews
You’re already working hard to run your business. Your Google profile should be working just as hard to bring people in the door.
Ready to Clean Up Your Google Presence?
If your profile is outdated, unclaimed, or underperforming, you’re leaving money on the table.
Click here to book your free strategy session with Jean
We’ll take a look at your current listing, walk through what’s working (and what isn’t), and give you an actionable plan to turn your profile into a lead magnet.
No guesswork. No stress. Just more clicks, calls, and conversions—starting today.