How to Level Up Your Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide
October 18, 2024Welcome to today’s post, where we’re diving deep into what could be your most important online asset—your Google Business Profile (GBP). Whether you’re new to Google Business or looking to optimize an existing profile, this guide is packed with actionable tips to help you make the most of this powerful tool. By the end of this post, you’ll know how to boost your profile and leverage it for maximum visibility in the real estate industry.
Why Your Google Business Profile is Critical
In today’s post-COVID world, buyers and sellers are more tech-savvy than ever. They’re searching for agents online, reading reviews, and judging your online presence long before they ever call you. In fact, 90% of people searching for a real estate agent start on Google. Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression you make—so make sure it’s a good one.
Optimize your GBP because perception is reality. A well-maintained profile can give you a competitive edge by enhancing your credibility.
The 3 Pillars of an Effective Online Presence
Before we jump into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand what your Google Business Profile should communicate:
- Marketing Expertise: Ensure consistent high-quality imagery, accurate business details, and professional branding.
- Likability: Let your personality shine through. People want to feel connected with someone they trust.
- Proven Success: Showcase reviews, client testimonials, and past sales to build trust and credibility.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Google Business Profile
Whether you’re creating a new profile or optimizing an existing one, follow these steps to ensure your GBP is working for you:
1. Set Up Your Profile
Head over to business.google.com and sign in using a personal Gmail account that you’ll always have access to, even if you change brokerages.
Pro Tip: Always use a personal Gmail account, not a company email. This ensures you maintain control over your profile regardless of brokerage changes.
2. Fill in the Essentials
- Business Name: Enter your first and last name as your business name.
- Address and Contact Details: Add your brokerage’s address and your contact information.
- Categories: Select “Real Estate Agent” and any other relevant categories.
3. Verify Your Profile
Google will prompt you to verify your profile, either via mail, phone, or video. Follow the instructions to complete verification.
Pro Tip: Ensure the phone number and address on your GBP match those on your website. Consistency is critical for verification.
Enhancing Your Profile: Go Beyond the Basics
Once your profile is set up, it’s time to optimize it for greater impact.
1. Add Photos Regularly
Upload photos of homes, neighborhoods, and community events. Google uses location data in photos to assess your relevance to local searches.
Pro Tip: Take photos in the neighborhoods you serve. This increases your relevance in local search results and boosts your visibility.
2. Maximize the Q&A Section
Answer common real estate questions such as, “Is now a good time to buy?” or “What’s the process for selling my home?”
Pro Tip: Ask and answer your own questions in this section. Google scans this content, making you more relevant in search results.
3. Focus on Reviews
Reviews provide social proof. Respond to every review, good or bad. A professional response to negative reviews can actually enhance your reputation.
Pro Tip: Aim to collect at least 20 reviews. Profiles with more reviews tend to rank higher in local searches.
4. Add Products and Services
Showcase your active listings and the neighborhoods you specialize in. Include services like “Luxury Homes,” “First-time Buyer Assistance,” and more.
Pro Tip: Move sold listings into a “Sold Homes” category to create a portfolio of past sales that builds your credibility over time.
5. Regular Updates
Keep your profile active by posting weekly updates. This could include new listings, market trends, or community events.
Pro Tip: Treat your GBP like a social media feed—frequent updates help with SEO and improve your ranking.
Tools to Boost Your Google Business Profile
GMB Everywhere Browser Extension
This free browser extension gives you insights into how your Google Business Profile (and your competitors’) is performing.
Bright Local
For more advanced tracking, Bright Local helps you monitor your rankings for specific keywords in certain areas. It’s a paid tool, but valuable if you’re focused on improving your local SEO.
Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Maintenance Plan for Your Google Business Profile
To keep your profile optimized, follow this simple update plan:
Daily: Request Reviews
Ask for at least one review every day from clients, colleagues, or anyone who has interacted with you professionally.
Pro Tip: Reviews are valuable! Aim to collect them regularly—equivalent to gaining $3,000-$7,000 in future commission.
Weekly: Add Photos
Upload a new photo every week, preferably from a service area you want to be known for. This could be homes, clients, or even community events.
Monthly: Add Products and Q&A
Update the “Products” section with any new listings or services, and add at least one new Q&A. Keep your profile active and informative.
Wrapping It Up
Your Google Business Profile is the first impression people get when they search for you. Whether you’re generating leads online or through referrals, your GBP is a vital tool to help grow your business.
If you haven’t already, get your profile set up today! And if you already have one, spend a few minutes optimizing it with the tips shared here.
Next Steps
Join us for our next training on 2025 Business Planning on November 21st at 2:00 PM Arizona Time. If you found this post valuable, invite a colleague to join the session!
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Google Business Profile is working hard for your business and driving more potential clients your way. Happy optimizing!
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