Make It Count

Google values accuracy and consistency. Double-check that your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) are correct and match across all online platforms.

Checklist:

✅ Business name is your real-world business name (no extra keywords)

✅ Address is accurate and formatted the same everywhere (website, Facebook, directories)

✅ Phone number is working and preferably local

✅ Website link points to the correct landing page

Example: If your GBP lists “ABC Auto Repair” but your Facebook still says “ABC Car Services,” customers and Google may not trust your information.

Your primary and secondary categories determine when you appear in searches.

Tips for Choosing Categories:

✅ Pick one primary category that best describes your business (e.g., “Bakery”)

✅ Add secondary categories for related services (e.g., “Wedding Cake Shop,” “Coffee Shop”)

✅ Avoid adding unrelated categories—it can confuse Google

Example: A plumber should choose “Plumber” as the main category, not “Contractor,” to appear in more specific searches.

Your description is your chance to showcase what makes you unique.

Best Practices:

✅ Keep it clear, customer-friendly, and keyword-rich

✅ Highlight your specialties and unique selling points

✅ Stay away from keyword stuffing or promotional offers

Example:

Instead of “We repair cars,” write:

“ABC Auto Repair in Ormoc City provides expert car maintenance and emergency roadside assistance, specializing in brake repair, oil changes, and engine diagnostics.”

Customers want to see what your business looks like before they visit. Profiles with photos receive significantly more clicks.

Checklist:

✅ Upload a clear logo and cover photo

✅ Add interior and exterior shots of your location

✅ Showcase your products, team, or services in action

✅ Use short videos (15–30 seconds) to build trust

Example: A café posting images of its cozy interior and best-selling pastries is more inviting than one with no photos at all.

Few things frustrate customers more than showing up to a closed business.

What to Do:

✅ Add regular business hours

✅ Update for holidays or special events

✅ Adjust immediately if your schedule changes

The products/services feature helps Google understand your offerings and helps customers see exactly what you provide.

Checklist:

✅ Add a full list of services (e.g., “Haircut,” “Hair Coloring,” “Bridal Styling”)

✅ Include product details and pricing if applicable

✅ Update regularly when offerings change

Reviews are one of the biggest factors in customer decision-making.

Best Practices:

✅ Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews

✅ Respond promptly to all reviews (positive and negative)

✅ Use responses to show your professionalism and care

Example: Responding to a negative review with a solution (“We’re sorry for your experience. Please contact us directly to resolve this.”) can turn unhappy customers into loyal ones.

Google Posts act like mini-ads and keep your profile active.

Ideas for Posts:

✅ Announce promotions or discounts

✅ Highlight events or seasonal specials

✅ Share new products or services

Example: A salon could post: “✨ Back-to-School Haircuts – Book now and get 10% off through August!”

Google provides data on how people find and interact with your profile.

What to Track:

✅ How customers discover your business (search vs. maps)

✅ What actions they take (calls, website visits, direction requests)

✅ Which photos or posts perform best

This helps you refine your strategy over time.