How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for More Traffic

The Power of Google Business Profile (GBP)

Imagine a customer in Des Moines searching for “best bakery near me.” Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is what helps them find your bakery instead of your competitor’s. GBP is a free but powerful tool that increases your visibility, drives website visits, and brings in more foot traffic.

But just claiming your GBP isn’t enough—you need to optimize it. This guide will walk you through proven strategies to get more customers from Google searches and Google Maps.

Step 1: Claim & Verify Your Google Business Profile

Why Verification is Essential

Before you can optimize your GBP, you need to claim and verify it. Google requires verification to ensure the business is legitimate. Without verification, your profile won’t appear in local search results.

How to Claim Your Business:

1. Go to Google Business Profile
2. Search for your business name
3. If it exists, claim it
4. If it doesn’t exist, create a new listing
5. Google will verify your business via postcard, phone, or email

Internal Resource:

Need more details? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Local SEO in Des Moines.

Step 2: Complete Your Business Information

Google prioritizes businesses that provide accurate and complete information. Ensure your profile contains: ✅ Business Name (exactly as it appears on your website)

✅ Address (matches your website & other directories)

✅ Phone Number (NAP Consistency)

✅ Website URL

✅ Business Hours (update during holidays!)

✅ Categories & Attributes (e.g., “Bakery,” “Gluten-Free Options”)

✅ Business Description (keyword-rich, but natural)

Pro Tip:

Use primary and secondary categories strategically. If you own a pizza shop, “Pizza Restaurant” should be your primary category, while “Italian Restaurant” and “Takeout Restaurant” can be secondary.

External Resource:

Check out Google’s Guidelines on listing accuracy.

Step 3: Optimize for Keywords

Keywords matter! Google uses your business description and posts to rank your listing. Include local keywords naturally, such as:

• “Best coffee shop in Des Moines”
• “Affordable HVAC services near Ankeny”
• “Top-rated hair salon in West Des Moines”

Where to Use Keywords in GBP:

✅ Business Description

✅ Google Posts

✅ Q&A Section

✅ Photo Captions

✅ Customer Reviews (Encourage keyword use)

Internal Resource:

Check out our upcoming guide on SEO vs. PPC: Which is Right for Your Business?

Step 4: Add High-Quality Photos & Videos

Visuals matter! Profiles with images get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites than those without.

Photo Optimization Tips:

📸 Upload at least 5 photos per week

📸 Include storefront, interior, staff, and products

📸 Use geo-tagged images for better local rankings

📸 Add short videos (customer testimonials, behind-the-scenes footage)

External Resource:

Learn more about Google’s photo guidelines here.

Step 5: Collect & Respond to Customer Reviews

Reviews build trust and improve rankings. Google considers both review quantity and quality in local rankings.

How to Get More Reviews:

⭐ Ask happy customers in person

⭐ Send follow-up emails/texts with a direct link

⭐ Use signage in-store to encourage reviews

⭐ Run a small contest (Google-approved) to motivate participation

How to Respond to Reviews:

✅ Thank positive reviewers

✅ Address concerns professionally in negative reviews

✅ Use keywords in responses (e.g., “We’re glad you enjoyed our organic coffee in Des Moines!”)

Step 6: Use Google Posts to Engage Customers

Google Posts appear directly in search results and help engage customers in real-time.

What to Post About:

📢 Promotions & Discounts (e.g., “20% off haircuts this week!”)

📢 Events & Announcements (e.g., “Grand Opening this Saturday!”)

📢 Blog Content (e.g., “5 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality”)

📢 New Products & Services (e.g., “Try our gluten-free cupcakes!”)

Pro Tip:

Post once per week to stay relevant.

Internal Resource:

Need inspiration? Check out our Content Marketing for Local SEO.

Step 7: Track Performance & Adjust

Google provides insights directly in GBP, including:

📊 How many people found you via search?

📊 How many calls & website clicks came from GBP?

📊 Which photos get the most engagement?

Use these insights to adjust your strategy and focus on what’s working!

What Are You Waiting for Take Action Today!

Optimizing your Google Business Profile isn’t just a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. By following these steps, you’ll increase visibility, attract more customers, and grow your business in Des Moines.

🚀 Need help? Contact us for a free Local SEO consultation! We have a service package for everyone – plans start as low as $60/month.