Local SEO
Google Business Profile Optimization
Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression customers have of your business. A fully optimized profile helps you rank higher in local search, earn trust, and convert more searches into calls and visits.
Why your Google Business Profile matters
When someone searches for a “marketing consultant near me” or your business name, your Google Business Profile is what appears in the Map Pack and local search results. An incomplete or unclaimed profile means lost visibility and lost revenue.
Rank higher locally
Complete profiles with photos, services, and reviews consistently outrank incomplete listings.
Build instant credibility
Customers are 2.7x more likely to consider a business reputable if its profile is complete.
Drive more conversions
Businesses with photos receive 35% more clicks to their websites and 42% more direction requests.
Step 1
Claim and verify your profile
If you haven't claimed your Google Business Profile yet, this is the highest-impact task you can do today.
Search for your business
Go to Google Business Profile and search for your business name. If a listing already exists, you can claim it. If not, create a new one.
Request ownership or create a listing
Click ‘Claim this business’ or ‘Manage now.’ If someone else already owns the profile, Google will send a verification request to the current owner.
Verify your business
Google will verify your business by postcard, phone, email, or instant verification (if you already use Google Search Console). Follow the prompts to complete verification.
Step 2
Add services to your listing
Services tell Google what you do and help match your profile to the searches your ideal customers are already making.
Add your core services
In your GBP dashboard, go to ‘Edit profile’ → ‘Services.’ Add each service you offer with a clear name and description. Use the exact language your customers would search for.
Set pricing when possible
If applicable, add price ranges for each service. Transparent pricing builds trust and helps Google match your profile to high-intent searches.
Choose relevant service categories
Pick primary and secondary categories that match what you do. Categories directly influence which local searches your business appears in.
Step 3
Upload photos that convert
Photos humanize your business and give potential customers confidence before they ever call or visit.
Upload a high-quality logo and cover photo
Use a crisp, professional logo (720 x 720 px minimum) and a compelling cover photo that shows your team, workspace, or a signature result.
Add photos of your work and team
Upload at least 5–10 images: your office or storefront, team members, completed projects, and behind-the-scenes shots. Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions.
Update photos seasonally
Refresh your photo gallery every quarter. Active, up-to-date profiles signal to Google (and customers) that your business is engaged.
Need help optimizing your local presence?
Legacy Strategic Consulting helps Birmingham-area businesses improve their local SEO, Google Business Profile, and overall marketing strategy.