Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful free marketing tools available. When someone searches for your services in Swindon, your profile is often the first thing they see — before they even visit your website. Here's how to make it count.
Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Profile
If you haven't already, go to business.google.com and search for your business. If a listing exists, claim it. If not, create one. Google will send you a verification code by post or phone — this confirms you're the real business owner.
Step 2: Complete Every Field
Google rewards completeness. Fill in every section: business name, address, phone number, website, hours, description, services, and attributes. Profiles with complete information rank higher in local searches.
Step 3: Write a Keyword-Rich Description
Your business description should naturally include the services you offer and the areas you serve. Don't stuff keywords in unnaturally — write for humans first, but make sure terms like "web design Swindon" or "plumber Wiltshire" appear where they make sense.
Step 4: Add Photos — Lots of Them
Profiles with more than 10 photos receive significantly more engagement than those without. Upload photos of your work, your team, your premises, and your products. Update them regularly — Google notices when profiles are actively maintained.
Step 5: Get Reviews (and Respond to All of Them)
Reviews are the single biggest factor in local search rankings. Create a simple system for asking happy customers to leave a review — a follow-up text with a direct link works brilliantly. And always respond to every review, positive or negative. Each response is an opportunity to include keywords naturally.
Step 6: Post Regularly
Google Business profiles have a "Posts" feature that most businesses ignore. Posting weekly — even just a quick update, a photo of recent work, or a special offer — signals to Google that your business is active and engaged.
Step 7: List Every Service Individually
Don't just list "building services." Break it down: extensions, loft conversions, renovations, new builds. Each individual service listing is another opportunity for Google to match you with a relevant search.
How Long Until You See Results?
Most businesses see improved visibility within 4-8 weeks of implementing these changes. The biggest quick wins come from review velocity (getting new reviews consistently) and profile completeness.
Need help optimising your Google Business Profile? Our GBP management service handles everything for you — or get in touch to discuss your options.