Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the single most powerful local SEO asset you own — it decides whether you appear in the local 3-Pack when nearby customers search. Here’s the exact checklist I run for every client.
Week 1–2: Foundation
Claim and verify your profile. Choose the most accurate primary category (this is the #1 ranking factor most businesses get wrong), add 2–3 relevant secondary categories, and write a keyword-rich business description. Set exact service-area boundaries and holiday hours.
Week 3–4: Visuals and proof
Upload 15+ high-quality photos: storefront, team, work in progress, before/after shots. Add your full service list with descriptions. Start publishing weekly GBP posts (offers, updates, FAQs) — they signal an active, trustworthy business.
Week 5–8: Reviews engine
Reviews are rocket fuel for 3-Pack rankings. Set up a simple post-job review request (text message with a direct review link works best), and respond to EVERY review within 48 hours — including the negative ones, professionally. Aim for velocity: steady new reviews beat a pile of old ones.
Week 9–12: Q&A and attributes
Seed the GBP Q&A section with real customer questions and your answers before competitors or random users do it for you. Fill every relevant attribute.
What to track
Watch three metrics: GBP profile views, direction requests/calls from the listing, and your 3-Pack position for your top 5 money keywords. Most businesses see movement in 60–90 days when the full checklist is executed consistently.
Want this done for you? Book a free 30-minute strategy call and I’ll map out your next steps — no pitch, no obligation.
