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How to Use Google My Business to Attract Local Customers

When someone searches for "restaurant near me" or "mechanic in [your city]", Google shows a map with local businesses. If your business is not there, you are losing customers every single day. The solution is Google My Business (now called Google Business Profile).

What Is Google My Business?

It is a free tool from Google that lets you create a business profile that appears in Google Search and Google Maps. It includes your name, address, phone number, hours, photos, reviews, and more.

Why It Matters So Much

  • 46% of all Google searches have local intent
  • 88% of people who search for a local business on their phone visit or call that business within 24 hours
  • It is free: You pay nothing to appear on Google Maps
  • It builds trust: A complete profile with positive reviews convinces customers before they even reach you

How to Set It Up Step by Step

  1. Go to business.google.com
  2. Sign in with your Google account
  3. Search to see if your business already exists (someone may have created it already)
  4. If it does not exist, create a new profile with your exact business name
  5. Choose the right category (restaurant, plumber, lawyer, etc.)
  6. Add your address, or indicate that you serve customers at their location
  7. Add your phone number and website
  8. Verify your business (Google sends a code by mail or phone)

How to Optimize Your Profile

Fill In Everything

Google prioritizes complete profiles. Fill in absolutely everything: hours, description, services, attributes (WiFi, parking, accessibility), and service area.

Add Quality Photos

Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their website. Upload photos of your location, products, team, and services.

Get Reviews

Reviews are the single most important factor for local ranking. Key strategies:

  • Ask satisfied customers for a review and send them the direct link
  • Respond to ALL reviews, positive and negative
  • Never buy fake reviews — Google will penalize you for it

Post Regular Updates

Google My Business lets you publish posts just like social media. Share offers, events, news, and updates. Active businesses rank higher.

Answer Questions

Users can ask questions directly on your profile. Respond quickly with useful information. You can also proactively add frequently asked questions and answer them yourself.

Google My Business + Website = More Customers

Your Google My Business profile drives traffic to your website. If your site is optimized to convert visitors into customers, the combination is unbeatable.

At autoses we do not just build your website — we also help you optimize your Google presence so local customers find you first.