How to Improve Local SEO With Google Business Profile: 2025 Guide

In today’s digital age, having a solid online presence is essential for any business aiming to thrive. With most consumers turning to search engines like Google to find local businesses, optimizing your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is now a cornerstone of a successful local SEO strategy.

Why Google My Business Matters for Local SEO

Here are five key reasons why an optimized Google My Business profile is essential:

1. Boost Local Search Rankings
With the right optimization strategies, your Google Business Profile can significantly improve your local search ranking. Since 71% of users click links on the first page of search results, appearing there increases your online visibility and attracts more customers.

2. Enhance Customer Engagement
Updating your profile with accurate details like contact information, photos, and business hours makes it easier for customers to connect with you. About 60% of smartphone users contact businesses directly via the profile’s features.

3. Drive Traffic and Sales
Optimized profiles drive more website traffic and generate leads. Profiles with photos, for example, receive 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks than those without.

4. Expand Your Reach
GMB profiles help you tap into the surge in “near me” searches, which grew by over 200% between 2017 and 2019. By providing complete information, you can reach a larger audience actively searching for services like yours.

5. Establish Authority
Reviews and ratings on your profile improve your credibility and influence customer decisions. Research shows that 74% of consumers trust businesses with a higher number of positive reviews.

How Google Determines Local Rankings

Google evaluates local rankings using three primary factors:

• Proximity: How close your business is to the searcher’s location.
• Relevance: The alignment between your business listing and the search query.
• Prominence: Your profile’s visibility, determined by factors like reviews, backlinks, and profile completeness.

Steps to Optimize Your Google Business Profile

1. Claim your business profile.
2. Add accurate details, including address, hours, and phone number.
3. Include high-quality photos.
4. Use relevant keywords throughout your profile.
5. Respond to reviews to build engagement and trust.
6. Regularly update your profile with new content or offers.

By focusing on these strategies, your business can effectively improve its local SEO and stand out in search results.

Looking to take your local SEO efforts to the next level? At Earn SEO, a local SEO company in New York, we specialize in helping businesses optimize their online presence and rank higher in local search results. Our team of experts ensures your business achieves maximum visibility, drives engagement, and attracts customers actively searching for your services. Explore our services to supercharge your business growth.