How to Get More Customers from Google Business Profile in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Active Toast
- Jun 4
- 4 min read
If you’re a small business owner, freelancer, or service provider wondering how to get more local leads without pouring money into ads, you’re in the right place.
In 2025, Google Business Profile (GBP) continues to be one of the most powerful tools for local visibility.
Let’s walk you through how to use it to drive real results — step by step.
What is Google Business Profile and Why It Still Matters in 2025
Google Business Profile is the free listing that shows up on Google when people search for your business or services near them. It's what powers the sidebar results, Google Maps, and even some voice search responses.
Despite the rise of social platforms, Google is still where people go when they’re ready to buy. Whether someone is looking for a "dentist near me" or a "freelance designer in Pune," your GBP is how you show up when it matters most.
In 2025, GBP has become more dynamic. With features like service menus, booking integrations, messaging, and even mini posts — it’s basically your local storefront online.
How Local Search Behavior Has Changed in 2025
Search habits have shifted. Here’s what’s different now:
Voice searches are common, especially for local queries like "Where’s the nearest yoga studio open now?"
"Near me" searches have become more specific, like "affordable vet near me open on Sundays."
Users trust listings with recent reviews, active updates, and visual proof (photos, videos).
Google Maps results influence decisions even before clicking a website.
If your GBP isn’t optimized for these behaviors, you’re leaving money on the table.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up or Optimize Your Google Business Profile in 2025
1. Claim and Verify Your Profile
Go to Google Business Profile and search for your business. If it exists, claim it. If not, create a new one and verify by phone, email, or postcard.
2. Choose the Right Business Category
This helps Google show you in relevant searches. Be specific. For example:
"Wedding Photographer" instead of just "Photographer"
"Vegan Bakery" instead of just "Bakery"
You can add secondary categories too.
3. Add Complete and Clear Information
Fill out your:
Business name (exactly as it appears in the real world)
Address (or service area if you travel to clients)
Phone number
Business hours (update if seasonal)
Website link
Booking link (if applicable)
4. Upload High-Quality Images & Videos
Photos = trust. Upload:
Exterior and interior shots
Your team in action
Product or service visuals
Customer photos (if permitted)
Tip: Don’t use stock photos. Real images rank better.
5. Add Services or Menu
Service-based businesses can now list all offerings. This helps with keyword visibility and gives potential customers clarity.
6. Activate Messaging
Let users message you directly from the search. In 2025, this feature is used by 70% of mobile searchers. Respond fast — it boosts your ranking.
7. Post Regular Updates
Think of GBP posts like mini social updates:
New product launches
Offers and discounts
Client wins or events
Posting weekly can signal to Google that your business is active.
Need help planning and managing this content consistently? Grab our SMM STARTER TOOLBOX — packed with templates, calendars, and strategy tools.
How to Get More Reviews (And Why They Matter)
Google reviews are social proof that drives both visibility and conversion.
Here’s how to get more of them:
Ask happy clients right after a service
Use QR codes at your store or in invoices
Add a review link to emails or WhatsApp follow-ups
Offer incentives (discounts, freebie entries — but follow Google’s rules)
Pro Tip: Respond to every review — even the negative ones — to show customers (and Google) you care.
How to Rank Higher on Google Maps
Ranking is based on three factors:
Relevance – How well your listing matches the search
Distance – How close you are to the user
Prominence – How well-known and active your business appears
To improve your prominence:
Post weekly updates
Get consistent reviews
Complete every profile field
Embed Google Maps on your site
Keep NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistent everywhere
Want more traffic from local search? Check out The Ultimate Guide to Social Media Marketing in 2025 to tie your local SEO with your broader strategy.
Convert Profile Views into Customers
Visibility is only half the game. You need to turn viewers into leads.
Here’s how:
Write a compelling business description (short, clear, benefit-focused)
Use a clear CTA in posts ("Call now," "Book today")
Enable booking and messaging
Use images that reflect your customer experience
Highlight reviews and success stories in posts
If you struggle with writing content that converts, our Hooks That Work in 100+ Ways can help you craft better captions, post descriptions, and attention-grabbing copy.
Real-World Examples
1. Local Bakery in Jaipur Before: Only address and a few pictures. No posts. After: Weekly updates of cakes, 100+ reviews, messaging enabled. Result: 3x increase in orders from Maps in 3 months.
2. Wellness Coach in Kochi Before: Profile claimed, but inactive. After: Added services, posted reels, used booking link. Result: Got 12 new local clients in 6 weeks.
3. Freelance Photographer in Bangalore Before: Confusing name, no keywords. After: Updated category, posted before/after shots, asked clients for reviews. Result: Shows up in top 3 for “event photographer near me.”
Final Thoughts
Google Business Profile is not a "set it and forget it" tool. In 2025, it’s an active part of your local marketing engine.
By showing up, staying consistent, and optimizing with intention — you can turn searchers into customers.
Need help setting up or fixing your Google Business Profile? Book a free strategy session here and let’s get you seen.
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