When a small business has a new product, special offer event or announcement, social media is usually the first place it gets posted.
That makes sense, but Facebook and Instagram should not be the only places you share it. Your Google Business Profile is often seen by people who are already searching for your business, your products or a local business like yours. They may be looking at your profile in Google Search or Google Maps while deciding where to shop, eat, book or visit.
That makes it one of the most valuable places to keep updated.
Reach people who are ready to act
Someone scrolling through social media may notice your post, but they were not necessarily looking to buy anything.
Someone who finds your Google Business Profile is often much closer to making a decision. They may be checking your hours, location, reviews, photos or available products. A recent photo or special offer can give that person another reason to choose your business.
Show customers what is available now
Your website may explain what your business normally offers, but your Google Business Profile can show what is happening right now.
You can post things like:
- New products
- Limited-time specials
- Seasonal items
- Upcoming events
- New services
- Restocked products
- Changes to your hours
- Behind-the-scenes photos
- Recent work or completed projects
Google allows businesses to publish updates, offers and events with photos, videos and action buttons. These posts can appear on your profile in Google Search and Maps. Google Business Profile Help
Photos help people understand your business
Small businesses often have something interesting to show, but their Google profile may contain only a logo, an exterior photo and a few older customer photos.
Regularly adding your own photos gives potential customers a much better idea of what they can expect.
A bakery can show today’s fresh items. An artist can share a newly finished piece. A restaurant can feature a special. A shop can show new stock. A contractor can show a recently completed job.
The photo does not need to look like a professional advertisement. It should simply be clear, well lit and honest. Google recommends photos that are in focus and represent the real business without excessive filters or alterations. Google’s photo guidelines
You have already done most of the work
The good news is that this does not need to become another large marketing job.
If you have already taken a photo and written a short post for Facebook or Instagram, you already have most of what you need.
Before moving on, take another minute to add it to your Google Business Profile. You may want to shorten the wording, include the most important details and add a button linking to the relevant page on your website.
The routine can be simple:
- Take one clear photo.
- Write one short update.
- Post it to your social media.
- Add it to your Google Business Profile.
- Include a useful link or action button when appropriate.
One photo and one piece of information can now help you reach both your social followers and people actively searching on Google.
Keep your profile from feeling forgotten
An outdated profile can make someone wonder whether the information is still accurate, especially when the newest photos or updates are several years old.
A steady stream of genuine updates shows that the business is active. It helps customers see what you sell, what has changed and what they might find if they visit today.
You do not need to post constantly. The important part is remembering that your Google Business Profile is another place where customers discover and evaluate your business.
The next time you post a product, special, event or photo on social media, take the extra minute and add it to Google too. You have already created the content, so give it another chance to help your business get found.