Want to boost your local business visibility? Google Business Profile (GBP) posts - formerly Google My Business (GMB) posts - are a powerful way to share updates, offers, and events directly on Google Search and Maps. Here’s a quick summary of 10 actionable tips to make your GBP posts stand out:
- Post Weekly: Consistency improves visibility. Best times? Mid-mornings on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
- Keep It Short: Stick to 150–300 characters for clarity and impact.
- Use Quality Images: Photos increase engagement - use 540x405 pixels for best results.
- Add Action Buttons: Use "Order Online", "Book", or "Call Now" to drive customer actions.
- Promote Deals: Share time-sensitive offers to attract attention.
- Update Business Info: Keep hours, services, and safety protocols accurate.
- Include Local Keywords: Mention your city or neighborhood to improve local search rankings.
- Showcase Products: Highlight items with clear descriptions and great visuals.
- Share Events: Include all event details like time, location, and RSVP links.
- Track Results: Monitor metrics like views, clicks, and customer actions to refine your approach.
These strategies can help you stay visible, engage customers, and drive more traffic to your business. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s break it down.
How To Do Google Posts the RIGHT Way
1. Set a Weekly Post Schedule
Creating a weekly posting schedule is a smart way to make the most of your Google Business Profile (GBP) posts. Did you know that 86% of consumers use Google My Business when looking for local information?.
To get the best results, aim to post during these high-engagement times:
| Day | Best Times to Post | Engagement Level |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM – 12 PM | High |
| Wednesday | 9 AM – 12 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM | Peak |
| Thursday | 9 AM – 12 PM | High |
Posting during these windows can help you connect with your audience when they’re most active.
"Post more often, and your company will appear higher up on the results page."
– PJ D'Angelo, Blue Zone Marketing
Here’s how to stay consistent and effective with your posts:
- Plan ahead: Build a monthly content calendar that highlights promotions, events, and seasonal specials.
- Automate your posts: Use scheduling tools to save time and ensure consistency.
- Mix it up: Share updates, promotions, or event details to keep your content fresh and engaging.
- Monitor results: Keep an eye on how your posts perform and adjust your strategy as needed.
Tailor your schedule to your audience’s habits. For example, restaurants might post around meal times, while retail stores could target peak shopping hours.
"Regular updates signal that your business is active and engaged with its audience".
Consistency isn’t just helpful - it’s essential.
2. Write Short, Clear Messages
When creating posts for your Google Business Profile, keeping it short and to the point is crucial. While you can use up to 1,500 characters, only the first 100 words are visible upfront. Stick to 150–300 characters to ensure your message is complete and easy to understand.
Here’s what makes a message stand out:
| Element | Best Practice | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 150-300 characters | "Spring sale: 25% off all indoor plants this weekend. Visit us Saturday-Sunday, 9 AM-6 PM. Show this post to redeem." |
| Language | Simple, jargon-free | "Now offering contactless pickup" instead of "Implementing alternative fulfillment solutions" |
| Structure | Important info first | "New lunch menu - All items under $15. Available Monday-Friday, 11 AM-2 PM." |
"When creating messages that resonate with diverse audiences, adopt a friendly, relatable tone with simplicity and clarity." - Anamika Shukla, Content Writer
To boost engagement:
- Highlight key details at the start.
- Use active voice: "Get 20% off today" instead of "A discount of 20% is being offered."
- Add clear calls-to-action (CTAs): Tell your audience exactly what to do next.
- Reference local context: Mention your neighborhood or city when it’s relevant.
- Keep your posts concise to align with scheduled content.
Short, clear messages reinforce your consistent and active presence.
3. Add Quality Images
Adding high-quality visuals to your Google My Business (GMB) posts can significantly improve engagement. Recent data shows that businesses with quality photos on their profiles see 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks compared to those without them. To ensure your images stand out, follow these key specifications:
| Image Specification | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Optimal Size | 540 x 405 pixels | Works well across all devices |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3 | Prevents cropping of important elements |
| File Format | JPG or PNG | Balances quality and load time |
| File Size | 10 KB - 5 MB | Loads quickly without losing clarity |
| Minimum Resolution | 480 x 270 pixels | Ensures sharpness on all screens |
Tips for Better Visuals
- Center the main subject to avoid cropping issues across devices.
- Use bright, well-lit images without heavy filters.
- Compress images to reduce file size while keeping them sharp.
- Regularly update your photos to reflect current offerings or activities.
"Showcasing updated Google Business photos can triple visibility in key local search results." - Chris Kirksey, CEO, Direction.com
Visuals are powerful tools. Research shows that while people remember only 10–20% of text alone, this increases to 65% when paired with relevant images. For service-based businesses, try posting before-and-after shots to highlight your work. Retailers can showcase seasonal items or new arrivals with clean, professional photos that emphasize product details.
4. Add Strong Action Buttons
After grabbing attention with visuals, the next step in an effective Google Business Profile (GMB) post strategy is to use clear calls-to-action (CTAs). These action buttons encourage customers to take specific steps, and Google provides several options to fit different needs.
Here are some popular CTA button types and their best uses:
| Button Type | Best Used For | Customer Intent |
|---|---|---|
| Order Online | Restaurants, retail | Ready to purchase |
| Book | Service businesses | Schedule appointments |
| Call Now | Urgent services | Immediate contact |
| Learn More | Detailed offerings | Information seeking |
| Sign Up | Events, newsletters | Community engagement |
| Buy | Product promotions | Direct sales |
| Offer | Special deals | Deal seekers |
Once you've chosen the right button, it's time to optimize it for maximum impact.
Maximizing Button Performance
Here are some tips to make your CTAs more effective:
- Match the button to customer intent: Select a button that aligns with where your audience is in their journey. For example, "Learn More" works well for informational posts, while "Buy" is better for promotions aimed at immediate sales.
- Use relevant links: Add URLs in your post body to provide additional CTA options. These links should guide users to landing pages that match the action you’re prompting.
- Ensure alignment with landing pages: If your button says "Order Online", make sure the linked page shows clear ordering options. A mismatch can confuse users and hurt conversions.
For example, a local restaurant using RecurPost saw a 25% increase in online orders within a month. They consistently featured the "Order Online" button in posts about weekly specials, creating a simple path from their profile to their ordering system. This small change led to measurable sales growth.
Research backs this up: personalized CTAs perform 202% better than generic ones. Use specific, benefit-focused language to encourage action. Instead of a vague "Learn More", try something like "View Menu" or "See Today’s Deals" to make the purpose crystal clear.
5. Post Current Deals
Sharing current deals is a proven way to grab attention and boost engagement. In fact, 66% of U.S. shoppers actively search for deals online.
Types of Deals That Work
| Deal Type | Best Use Case | Customer Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Flash Sales | Move inventory quickly | Creates urgency, avg. 35% revenue boost |
| BOGO Offers | Introduce new products | Offers a sense of higher value |
| Free Shipping | Reduce cart abandonment | Tackles 41% of cart abandonment issues |
| Holiday Specials | Seasonal promotions | Timely and relevant |
| First-Time Customer | Attract new customers | Feels exclusive and special |
These deal types are great starting points for posts that are clear, enticing, and time-sensitive.
How to Write Effective Deal Posts
Focus on value and urgency in your messaging. For example, a post might say: "$50 off your first massage session – offer ends March 15, 2025." Adding an expiration date encourages immediate action.
What to Include in Deal Posts:
- Highlight the savings or value (e.g., dollar or percentage discounts).
- Provide clear instructions on how to redeem the deal.
- Specify the offer's expiration date.
- Mention any restrictions or purchase minimums.
- Include a direct call-to-action, like a "Book Now" button.
Tips for Better Visibility
- Use contrasting colors and overlay important details on images. For instance, a "$5 Pizza Tuesday" deal displayed prominently on a photo can grab attention.
- Regular deals can create anticipation. Consider weekly or monthly themes like "Wellness Wednesdays" or "First Friday Specials" to keep customers coming back.
- Add unique promo codes (e.g., "MARCH25GMB") to track the performance of your posts and refine future offers.
For service businesses, bundled packages can be a hit. A spa, for example, could promote a "Spring Revival Package" that combines a massage and facial at a discounted rate. Make the deal exclusive to bookings through your post and set a deadline to drive urgency.
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6. Post Business Changes
Keeping customers informed about business changes builds trust and shows transparency. Profiles that include up-to-date information tend to attract twice as many quality customers.
Types of Updates to Share
Here’s a list of common updates you might need to share, along with the key details to include:
| Change Type | What to Include | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Hours Update | New hours, start date, and reason for change | Ensures customers have accurate and timely information |
| Service Changes | Updated offerings or pricing details | Sets clear expectations for customers |
| Location Updates | New address, directions, and parking info | Helps customers easily find your business |
| Safety Protocols | Current guidelines and requirements | Shows commitment to customer safety |
| Temporary Closures | Closure duration and alternatives | Keeps customers informed during interruptions |
Making Hours Updates More Effective
When updating hours, go beyond Google's automated posts. Include specific details like new hours, effective dates, and how the change benefits customers.
Monitoring and Managing Changes
Customers can suggest edits to your business profile, so it’s important to stay on top of these updates. Regularly check details like operating hours, holiday schedules, event times, and service areas to avoid confusion.
Best Practices for Communicating Changes
When announcing updates, keep the following tips in mind:
- Share changes at least two weeks in advance and include exact dates in MM/DD/YYYY format.
- Clearly explain why the change is happening or how it benefits customers.
- Provide alternative options if the update impacts availability or services.
- Use the "Update" post type to ensure better visibility for important announcements.
Remember, posts archive after six months. Refresh critical updates regularly to keep them visible.
Using Business Changes to Attract Customers
Updates like extended hours not only meet customer needs but can also improve your local search ranking. Sharing clear, timely updates creates opportunities for engaging posts that keep customers informed and connected.
7. Use Local Search Terms
Using local keywords in your Google My Business (GMB) posts can help attract nearby customers and improve your visibility in local search results. It’s a simple but effective way to connect with people in your area.
What Are Local Keywords?
Local keywords combine what your business offers with geographic terms. Here are three common types:
| Keyword Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Explicit Local | Includes a direct location mention | "bakery in Miami" |
| Implicit Local | Suggests a location by context | "24-hour bakery near me" |
| Neighborhood | Refers to a specific area | "South Beach pastry shop" |
How to Find Local Keywords
Start by identifying your main business terms and pairing them with location-specific modifiers. Tools like Google Keyword Planner and Semrush's Keyword Magic Tool can help you uncover the best options.
A Real-Life Example
Popken Fashion Group showed how effective local keyword use can be. By combining product keywords like "plus-size" with location-specific terms such as "Bremen", they saw improved rankings and better visibility in local search results.
Tips for Using Local Keywords Effectively
Here’s how to make the most of local keywords in your GMB posts:
- Mention landmarks or well-known neighborhoods.
- Use local terms in service descriptions and highlight nearby events or seasonal activities.
- Reference popular business districts or shopping areas.
Tracking Your Keyword Success
To see how well your local keywords are performing, use tools like BrightLocal's SERP Checker. This will help you figure out which terms are driving the most engagement and allow you to fine-tune your strategy over time.
Take It a Step Further with Location Targeting
Want to go deeper? Try these advanced tactics:
- Add specific neighborhoods to your "Areas Served" section.
- Include location-based keywords in your business description.
- Highlight nearby business districts or shopping hubs.
These strategies can help your GMB posts stand out to local customers while boosting your search rankings. Now, let’s look at how to showcase your products in the next tip.
8. Show Your Products
Using Google My Business (GMB) posts to showcase your products can boost customer interest and increase sales. The trick is to pair eye-catching visuals with clear, engaging descriptions that emphasize what makes your products stand out. Here’s how to make the most of your product photos and descriptions.
How to Create Great Product Photos
High-quality photos are a must for GMB posts. Keep these tips in mind:
- Use consistent lighting to capture true colors and details.
- Highlight your top-selling items in the frame.
- Include at least three photos to provide a well-rounded view.
- Feature your products in real-world settings or during use to make them relatable.
Writing Product Descriptions That Work
Combine clear details with a bit of storytelling to make your descriptions pop. Focus on these elements:
| Element | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Highlight technical details | "Made with genuine leather" |
| Benefits | Show customer value | "Keeps feet comfortable all day" |
| Keywords | Boost local SEO | "Miami handcrafted shoes" |
Seasonal Product Highlights
Seasonal products can grab extra attention. For example:
- Pumpkin spice muffins in the fall
- Holiday-themed desserts in December
- Graduation cakes in spring
- Items featuring local sports team themes during major games
Tips for Writing Descriptions
- Understand Your Audience: Tailor your descriptions to match your customers' preferences and needs.
- Use Clear Formatting: Bullet points make key details, like "breathable leather" or "non-slip soles", easy to scan. Dotty Fish’s product descriptions are a great example of this approach.
Additional Optimization Ideas
Take your product listings a step further by:
- Adding location-specific keywords to tie your products to local searches.
- Aligning descriptions with your overall local SEO strategy to improve visibility.
These strategies can help you attract more attention and engagement through your GMB profile.
9. Share Event Details
After product showcases, event posts are a great way to connect with customers by inviting them to local activities.
Posting events on Google My Business can help increase attendance and interaction. Make sure to include all necessary details so participants can easily join in.
Key Event Details to Include
Make sure to add these:
- Event title
- Start and end dates with times
- Location information
- Engaging description
- High-quality image or video
- Registration or RSVP button
Pro tip: If you don’t specify event times, Google My Business will automatically set the event to last 24 hours on the posted date.
Tips for Crafting Event Posts
| Element | Best Practice | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Be clear and specific | "Live Jazz Night & Wine Tasting" |
| Timing | Include exact date and time | "Saturday, March 15, 2025, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM" |
| Description | Cover the 5Ws (Who, What, Where, When, Why) | "Who: Local jazz band, What: Live music and wine, Where: Venue address, When: Date/time, Why: Enjoy local talent" |
| Call-to-Action | Provide clear next steps | "Book Now" or "Register Here" button |
Simplify Registration or RSVP
Make it easy for people to register:
- Add a "Book" or "Register" button
- Link directly to an event landing page
- Set RSVP deadlines
- Include ticket pricing if applicable
Success Story: Local Music Venue
A neighborhood music venue shows how effective event posts can be. They regularly update their Google My Business profile with upcoming performances, including real-time schedule changes and direct ticket booking options via a "Book" button. This approach makes it simple for users to discover events and grab tickets directly through Google.
Optimizing Your Event Posts
Boost your event's visibility with these tips:
- Use local keywords
- Include high-quality images or videos
- Mention any special offers
- Update details if event info changes
Events that meet specific criteria may also appear on your Business Profile's "Overview" tab.
10. Check Post Results
After fine-tuning your posts, keeping an eye on performance is essential. Regularly tracking how your Google My Business (GMB) posts perform will help you tweak your strategy and keep engagement levels high. By analyzing key metrics, you can make sure your posts continue to bring in results.
Metrics You Should Monitor
| Metric | What to Watch | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Total Impressions | Number of views on Maps/Search | Shows how far your post is reaching |
| Customer Actions | Calls, website clicks, direction requests | Reflects how well your post engages users |
| Post Performance | Views, clicks, bookings | Measures how appealing your content is |
| Search Queries | Keywords driving traffic | Helps fine-tune your content strategy |
Making Sense of the Numbers
On average, businesses see around 59 GMB actions per month. To make the most of your efforts, dive into the following:
- Search Visibility: Identify which keywords are bringing in traffic.
- Platform Breakdown: Compare engagement levels on Search versus Maps.
- Customer Insights: Look for patterns in call volume and seasonal trends.
- Website Impact: Measure how many users click through to your site.
Real-Life Example
"The Daily Grind", a cafe in Austin, saw a drop in website clicks in March 2023. After reviewing their GMB insights, they updated keywords to include terms like "specialty coffee", "vegan pastries", and "outdoor seating." Within 60 days, website clicks jumped 45%, and online orders increased by 20%.
Tips to Sharpen Your Posts
- Analyze when engagement peaks and which types of posts convert the most.
- Pay attention to seasonal patterns.
- Double down on post formats that drive results.
Eye-Opening Stats
- Local businesses average 1,260 monthly GMB views.
- 56% of customer actions lead to website visits.
- Fully completed GMB profiles get 7x more clicks than incomplete ones.
If you notice a drop in performance, revisit your keywords, adjust your content, and update your calls-to-action (CTAs) to keep engagement high.
Need help managing your GMB posts and tracking performance? Reach out to BrightSide SEO for expert guidance.
Conclusion
Posting regularly on Google My Business (GMB) can give your local online presence a noticeable boost. Campaigns with consistent updates see average click-through rates of 1.44%.
Key Success Factors
Staying active on GMB by posting regularly keeps your profile updated and signals to Google that your business is engaged. Since GMB posts expire after seven days, and with 84% of consumers relying on search engines for local purchases, frequent updates can greatly enhance your local visibility.
Measuring Your Success
Keep an eye on these key metrics to refine your GMB strategy:
| Metric Type | What to Monitor | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Engagement | Views, clicks, shares | Shows how relevant your content is |
| Conversions | Calls, direction requests | Tracks how often users take action |
| Discovery | Search queries, visibility | Measures how far your reach extends |
These data points not only show how well your posts are performing but also provide insights for future improvements.
Moving Forward
While GMB posts don’t directly influence search rankings, they can increase click-through rates and engagement, leading to more leads over time. Experts recommend incorporating Google Posts into a broader local SEO plan to improve visibility and drive conversions.
If managing this strategy feels overwhelming, BrightSide SEO offers local SEO services, including GMB management, starting at $299 per year for up to three locations. Their team can help turn your GMB profile into a lead-generating asset, leaving you free to focus on running your business.
