Small Business Saturday is just around the corner on November 29th, making this the perfect time to ensure you optimize your Google Business Profile so that it stands out online. With holiday shoppers searching for unique gifts and services, your Google Business Profile (GBP) can be a powerful tool to attract customers during the busiest shopping season of the year.
Here are some tips to help you optimize your Google Business Profile and ensure your local business shines during the holiday rush!
1. Ensure Your Contact Info Is Accurate
First impressions matter, and in the digital world, your Google Business Profile is often a customer’s first point of contact. Double-check that your business name, address, phone number, and website link are accurate and up-to-date. Errors in this information can confuse potential customers or lead them to competitors.
- Update your address if you’ve recently moved.
- Verify your phone number for seamless customer communication.
- Make sure your website link points directly to your homepage or a dedicated holiday landing page.
2. Update Your Holiday Hours
The holiday season often brings changes to your hours of operation. Whether you’re staying open late for holiday shoppers, closing early on certain days, or extending weekend hours, accurately reflecting these changes on your profile is crucial.
Google allows you to set special holiday hours for specific dates, ensuring customers know when they can visit your business. Don’t forget to include holiday closures for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
3. Highlight Holiday Promotions
Holiday promotions are an excellent way to attract shoppers, and your Google Business Profile provides a perfect space to showcase them.
Use the “Posts” feature to create engaging updates about:
- Discounts and special offers.
- Buy-one-get-one-free deals.
- Limited-time holiday bundles.
Be sure to include festive visuals and a clear call-to-action, such as “Shop Now,” “Visit Today,” or “Order Online.”
4. Upload Festive Photos
A picture is worth a thousand words, and during the holiday season, festive photos can grab the attention of potential customers.
Upload images that highlight your:
- Seasonal products: Show off holiday-themed items or bestsellers.
- Decorated storefront: Make your business stand out with holiday cheer.
- Festive events: If you’re hosting any holiday workshops or pop-ups, showcase them!
Google encourages businesses to post high-quality, authentic photos to enhance credibility and engage viewers.
5. Respond to Outstanding Reviews
Customer reviews are a vital part of your online reputation. Take time to respond to outstanding reviews—both positive and negative.
- For positive reviews, thank customers and mention specific details about their experience.
- For negative reviews, respond professionally and offer solutions to resolve the issue.
Responding to reviews not only builds trust but also signals to potential customers that you value their feedback.
6. Add Attributes Like “Gift Wrapping” or “Delivery”
Google allows you to add attributes that highlight special services your business offers. During the holidays, these can include:
- Gift wrapping: A convenience that many holiday shoppers appreciate.
- Delivery or curbside pickup: Options for customers who prefer to shop online or pick up their purchases without leaving their car.
These attributes make your profile more appealing to customers seeking convenience and value during the busy season.
7. Refresh Your Products & Services
Your products and services section should reflect your seasonal offerings to entice holiday shoppers.
- Showcase popular gift items or holiday-exclusive products.
- Include detailed descriptions, prices, and images.
- Use keywords like “holiday gift,” “stocking stuffer,” or “seasonal special” to enhance visibility in local searches.
Don’t forget to feature services like custom orders, holiday catering, or event hosting if applicable.
Why Optimizing Your Google Business Profile Matters
During the holidays, customers rely heavily on online searches to find local businesses. According to Google, 76% of people who search for something nearby on their smartphone visit a business within a day. An optimized Google Business Profile ensures your business is visible, appealing, and informative for these shoppers.
Need Help? Let Ancarna Digital Optimize Your Profile
We understand that managing your business during the holiday season can be overwhelming. That’s where our team at Ancarna Digital comes in!
We specialize in optimizing Google Business Profiles to help local businesses like yours stand out and attract more customers. From updating your hours and adding festive photos to crafting engaging posts, we handle it all so you can focus on serving your customers.
Get Started Today!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shine this Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season. Contact us today to ensure your Google Business Profile is holiday-ready!
