How to Add Keywords to Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
Google My Business (GMB), now known as Google Business Profile (GBP), is a free tool that allows you to control how your business appears on Google Search, Google Maps, and Google Shopping. Adding relevant keywords to your Business Profile can significantly enhance your business’s visibility and drive local search traffic to your website. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively add keywords to your GBP.
Getting Started with Your Google Business Profile
Before you can optimize your GBP with keywords, ensure your profile is set up correctly. If you haven’t created a GBP yet, follow these steps:
- Head to the Google Business Profile website.
- Log in with a Google account.
- Fill in the form with the business name using Title Case.
- Add your business address for verification by Google.
- Specify if you have a storefront or provide services at other locations.
- Select your business category.
- Include your phone number.
- Verify your business address.
Once your profile is set up and verified, you can start adding keywords to enhance your local SEO.
Where and How to Use Keywords in Your Google Business Profile
1. Add Keywords as Business Categories
The business category field is foundational for directing potential customers to your business. Ensure that your primary business category accurately describes your services. For instance, if you run a bakery, “Bakery” should be your primary category, but you can also add secondary categories like “Café” or “Dessert Shop” to cover all aspects of your business.
2. Add Keywords to Your Business Description
The business description is a prime spot for incorporating keywords. Describe your business, services, and unique selling points while naturally including relevant keywords. For example:
“XYZ Bakery offers freshly baked goods, including bread, cakes, and pastries. Located in downtown Austin, our bakery provides a cozy café experience.”
3. Leverage the Products and Services Feature
Use the products and services section to add detailed descriptions, incorporating relevant keywords. Each product or service entry should highlight what you offer and include keywords. For example:
Product Name: Chocolate Cake
Description: Our signature chocolate cake is made with premium cocoa and is perfect for any occasion. Available for custom orders and delivery in Austin.
4. Add Keywords as Business Attributes
Within the GBP, you can add attributes that further define your business. These attributes can also include keywords that potential customers might search for. To add attributes:
- Go to the Info section in the left-hand menu of your GBP dashboard.
- Scroll down to find the Attributes section.
- Add relevant attributes, such as “wheelchair accessible,” “free Wi-Fi,” or “pet-friendly.”
5. Publish Posts with Relevant Keywords
Google Business Profile allows you to publish posts about offers, events, and updates. Including keywords in these posts can improve your visibility in local searches. Keep your posts concise (80-100 characters) and ensure the keywords appear towards the beginning.
Example Post: “Join us this weekend for a special chocolate cake tasting event at XYZ Bakery in downtown Austin!”
6. Respond to Questions and Answers
Regularly monitor and respond to questions posted on your GBP. This not only helps with customer engagement but also provides another opportunity to include keywords. For example, if a customer asks about vegan options:
Question: “Do you offer vegan cakes?”
Answer: “Yes, XYZ Bakery offers a variety of vegan cakes made with plant-based ingredients. Visit us in downtown Austin to try our vegan chocolate cake!”
7. Optimize Your Main Website with Keywords
Finally, ensure your main website is also optimized with the same keywords used in your GBP. This consistency helps in improving your overall SEO. Include keywords in strategic locations such as H1 headings, subheadings, meta descriptions, and throughout your website copy.
Conclusion
Optimizing your Google Business Profile with relevant keywords can significantly boost your local SEO and attract more customers to your business. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your business stands out in local searches, driving more traffic and potential sales. Regularly update your GBP with fresh content and keywords to maintain and improve your visibility.