Growing Your Customer Base with Google Business Engagement

We’re all in this together, trying to make our mark in the bustling world of commerce. And there’s one tool that can really amp up our game – our Google Business Profile. It’s not just about being on the map; it’s about Google Business engagement, about making our profiles a vibrant, dynamic platform for connecting with our customers.

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Now, let’s face it, the Canadian market is unique. We’ve got our own way of doing things, and our customers expect that local touch. That’s why having a Google Business Profile isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential. In a world where nearly everyone’s Googling for everything, being visible and engaging on Google Business can make a world of difference.

But here’s the catch – it’s not just about being there; it’s about how we’re there. We’ve got to make our profiles engage in meaningful ways, and build a community around our brand. And I’m not just talking out of the blue here. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-crafted profile can turn passersby into loyal customers. Just last month, I updated a client’s profile with some fresh photos, a catchy description, and a few compelling posts, then I saw an uptick in traffic and conversions.

This post is about making your Google Business Profile not just a listing but a hub of customer engagement and community building. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and dive into the world of Google Business engagement, Canadian style! Let’s get our profiles to work for us, not just exist. Ready? Let’s do this!

Understanding the Basics of Google Business Engagement

The heart of the matter is Google Business engagement. If you’re scratching your head wondering what that’s all about, worry not. It’s simpler than it sounds, and it’s a game-changer for us, small business owners.

What Exactly is Google Business Engagement?

Picture this: your Google Business Profile isn’t just a static page with your address and hours. It’s a living, breathing space where customers can interact with your business. Google Business engagement is all about how actively you’re using this space to connect with customers. It’s the chats you have, the updates you post, the questions you answer – it’s everything that turns a simple listing into a community hub.

Why Google Business Engagement is a Big Deal for Us Canadians

In this Canadian market, where we thrive on that personal touch and community feel, having an engaging Google Business Profile is like having a storefront on the busiest street. It makes your business more visible and approachable. Customers can see what’s new, ask questions, and feel connected to your business. It’s like having a friendly chat over the counter, but online, essentially this is what Google Business engagement is about.

Did you know...

In 2021, more than 1.9 million Canadian businesses and sole traders received phone calls, requests for directions, messages, bookings, reviews, and other direct engagements through their Google Business Profile.

In 2023 verified businesses average 1,803 monthly views, mostly from discovery searches. On average, a verified profile receives around 200 clicks/interactions per month, with website visits accounting for 48% of these interactions.

In 2023, 97% of people look for local businesses on the internet.

A report from the Government of Canada highlights the significant role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Canadian economy. Notably, SMEs contribute over 50% of Canada's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with small firms alone accounting for an average contribution of 38.1% to the GDP between 2015 and 2019. This underscores the crucial impact of these businesses in various sectors, both in the goods-producing and services-producing segments. 

Practical Tips for Boosting Engagement and Visibility

1. Keep Your Info Up-to-Date: This might sound basic, but it’s the bedrock. Ensure your hours, contact info, and address are always current. Have a special holiday schedule? Update it. New phone number? Change it. Keeping info accurate makes life easier for your customers.
2. Post Regularly: Just like you’d put up new signs or decorations in your physical store, do the same on your Google Profile. Got a new product? Post about it. Special event? Share it. These posts show up in Google Search and Maps, giving customers a peek into your business.
3. Respond to Reviews: Whether it’s a rave review or a not-so-glowing one, respond to them. Thank customers for their kind words, address concerns, and show you’re listening. It’s about building trust and relationships.
4. Use Photos and Videos: People love visuals. Upload photos of your products, your team, or your store. It adds personality and gives customers a feel for your business. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it’s showcasing your latest offerings or your team’s smiling faces.
5. Leverage Q&A: Keep an eye on the Questions & Answers section. Responding to queries not only helps the person who asked but also anyone else who might have the same question. It’s about being proactive and helpful.
6. Analyze and Adapt: Google provides Insights for a reason. See what’s working and what’s not. Which posts get the most views? What times are people looking at your profile? Use this data to tweak your strategy.

Incorporating these hands-on tips into your Google Business engagement strategy can really set your business apart. It’s about showing customers that you’re not just a business; you’re a part of the community. And in our Canadian market, that’s a big deal. So it’s a good idea to turn our Google Business Profiles into a community hubs.

Setting Up Your Google Business Profile for Success

Setting up your Google Business Profile is like laying the foundation for your digital storefront, a crucial step towards Google Business engagement.

Creating or Optimizing Your Profile for Google Business Engagement

• Start from Scratch or Spruce Up: If you’re new to this, you’ll be creating a profile from the ground up. Already got one? It’s time to give it a makeover. Think of it like sprucing up your shop window to catch the eye of passersby.
• Claim Your Business: Make sure you claim your business on Google. This step is vital, it’s like getting you on the map so-to-speak.
• Verification is Key: Google will need to verify your business. It’s a straightforward process, usually involving a postcard sent to your business address with a verification code.

The Devil’s in the Details

• Accuracy is Everything: Make sure every piece of information is accurate. Your address, phone number, operating hours – everything needs to be spot on. Remember, there’s nothing more frustrating for a customer than showing up during supposed open hours only to find the doors locked.
• Description Matters: Write a compelling description. This isn’t just a few words about what you sell or offer; it’s your chance to tell your story, to share what makes your business unique, especially in our vibrant Canadian marketplace.

Categories and Attributes: Making Your Business Stand Out

• Choose Wisely: Select categories that best describe your business. For example, if you’re a café that specializes in artisanal coffee and local pastries, make sure it’s reflected here. It helps customers find exactly what they’re looking for.
• Attributes – Show Your Flair: Attributes are like the special features of your business. Do you offer free Wi-Fi? Is your location wheelchair accessible? These might seem small, but they can be big deciding factors for customers.

A Short Google Business Engagement Story

Let me share a quick story. When I helped a friend set up a Google Business Profile several years ago, I thought just listing his services would do (we both thought the extra work of posting content was unnecessary). Boy, were we wrong! It was only after I detailed my clients’ unique approach to handcrafted furniture, emphasizing his use of locally sourced Canadian wood, that he started seeing more engagement. Customers started mentioning how they found him on Google and loved the story behind his products. That’s the power of a well-set-up Google Business Profile!

Setting up your Google Business Profile is your first step towards meaningful Google Business engagement. It’s about making your business visible and attractive in the digital world, just as you do in the physical one.

Crafting a Winning Profile

Crafting a winning Google Business Profile is like painting a masterpiece that showcases your business in its best light. It’s a crucial step in enhancing Google Business engagement.

Creating a Captivating Profile Description for Google Business Engagement

• Tell Your Story: Your description isn’t just a list of services or products. It’s the story of your business. Share what makes you unique, why you started this journey, and what you offer that others don’t. Remember, people connect with stories, not just facts.
• Be Clear and Concise: Use simple, straightforward language. You want to be easily understood by everyone, from the teenager looking for their first job to the retiree exploring new local haunts.
• Local Flavor: Don’t forget to add a bit of local Canadian charm! Whether it’s a nod to your city, a local ingredient, or a community event you participate in, it helps in forging a deeper connection with local customers.

The Power of High-Quality Images for Google Business Engagement

• A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words: Upload high-quality images of your products, services, and your storefront. Before-and-after shots, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or images of your team in action can be really engaging.
• Keep It Fresh: Regularly update your images to reflect seasons, special events, or new offerings. Imagine showcasing your café’s pumpkin spice goodies in autumn or your clothing store’s summer collection.

The Importance of Regular Updates to Google Business Engagement

• Stay Current: Regularly updating your business information is key. If your opening hours change, your contact information gets updated, or you’re offering new services, your Google Business Profile should reflect that ASAP.
• Seasonal Updates: Embrace the seasons or local events. If you’re a florist, talk about your spring arrangements; if you’re a tax consultant, remind folks about tax season deadlines.
• Promotions and Events: Got a sale coming up? Hosting a workshop? Keep your profile updated with these events. It’s a great way to encourage repeat visits to your profile and, subsequently, your business.

A Personal Google Business Engagement Tip

Here’s a tip from my own experience: when I first added photos of one of my clients’ team celebrating Canada Day at their store – along with their customers, the response was incredible. Customers mentioned how they felt a part of their community just by seeing those images. That’s the power of a well-crafted profile!

On another occasion, a client was having her printing store updated to include new equipment, which also included a training day session. Because some of the equipment included a high end camera, and mini photo booth, she invited her customers to get a free digital photo session for that day, to help train her staff in the new procedures and equipment. Customers feedback was terrific, they commented on the community spirit, and many shared the link to her Google Business Profile. It was a fun day for them, that put them in the community limelight (and her sales went up the following weeks).

Engaging With Customers Through Reviews and Q&A

Here’s another crucial part of Google Business engagement: connecting with customers through Reviews and the Q&A feature. This is where the rubber meets the road in building trust and rapport with your audience.

Mastering the Art of Responding to Reviews

• Acknowledge Every Review: Whether it’s a glowing praise or a critical comment, each review deserves a response. It shows you value customer feedback and are actively involved.
• Stay Positive and Professional: For positive reviews, a simple thank you goes a long way. For negative ones, respond with empathy and a commitment to improve. Remember, your responses are public – they say as much about your business as the reviews themselves.
• Turn Negatives into Opportunities: Got a less-than-stellar review? Use it as a chance to show your commitment to customer satisfaction. Offer to resolve issues and invite the customer to discuss their concerns further offline.

Encouraging Customers to Leave Reviews

• Just Ask: Sometimes, all it takes to get a review is to ask for it. Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences. It could be a sign at your checkout counter or a mention after providing a service.
• Follow-Up Emails: If you have customer emails, send a follow-up thanking them for their business and inviting them to review. Keep it short and sweet.
• Make it Easy: Provide clear instructions or a direct link to where they can leave a review. The easier it is for customers to leave a review, the more likely they will do it. Consider adding a QR code in your store or on your business card that links directly to your review page.

Utilizing the Q&A Feature Effectively

• Be Proactive: Regularly check and respond to questions in the Q&A section of your profile. It’s not just about answering a single customer but providing information that future customers might find helpful.
• FAQs: Anticipate common questions and answer them proactively. It saves time for your customers and demonstrates your attentiveness to their needs.
• Keep it Updated: As your business evolves, so will the questions. Make sure to keep an eye on this section and update your answers as needed.

A Personal Google Business Engagement Anecdote

I remember giving advice to a client who opened his very first business (a landscaping business) after he responded to a negative review, with a defensive reply. He took a step back, after we discussed his challenge, and addressed the customer’s concerns empathetically. It turned out to be a great learning experience, and the customer even updated their review to acknowledge his effort. That moment really drove home how powerful these interactions can be in building trust through Google Business engagement.

Leveraging Posts to Keep Customers Informed and Engaged

Keeping our customers in the loop and engaged using posts on our Google Business Profile is an incredibly effective way to boost Google Business engagement. Trust me, it’s like keeping the conversation going even when the shop door is closed.

Best Practices for Creating Engaging Posts

• Keep It Fresh: Regularly update your posts. You wouldn’t leave the same window display for months on end, right? The same goes for your online presence.
• Be Relevant: Your posts should be relevant to your audience. Are you a local café? Post about your new seasonal drinks. Run a bookstore? Share your latest arrivals.
• Engage Visually: Use high-quality images or videos to catch the eye. Remember, a great picture can say more than a lengthy post.

Types of Posts to Consider

1. Offers and Promotions: Everyone loves a good deal. Post about your current sales, special discounts, or exclusive offers. It’s a great way to drive foot traffic and online sales.
2. Events: Hosting a workshop, a community event, or a special guest appearance? Let your customers know! It not only promotes the event but also showcases your business as a community hub.
3. News and Updates: Got something newsworthy? Perhaps you’re launching a new product line, or you’ve won a local business award. Share it! It’s a way to keep your customers updated and involved in your business journey.
4. Product Highlights: Showcase your products. A bookstore could highlight a Book of the Month, while a hardware store might showcase a new model of barbecue.

The Power of Regular Posting

• Stay Top of Mind: Regular posts keep your business at the forefront of your customers’ minds. It’s like a gentle reminder that you’re there and you’ve got something interesting to offer.
• Build a Narrative: Over time, your posts can tell the story of your business. It’s like giving your customers a behind-the-scenes tour of what you do and why you do it.
• Engage and Get Feedback: Use posts to engage with your customers. Ask for their opinions, feedback, or ideas. It’s a two-way street.

A Quick Story About Google Business Engagement

I remember a client posting about a new first-nations artist, providing artwork for their shop. she shared the story of how she sourced him, and included a picture of the first carving arriving. The response was fantastic – it brought in art enthusiasts who were eager to see more pieces. That post wasn’t just an update; it was an invitation to experience something new and exciting.

Using Insights to Understand and Grow Your Audience

Let’s talk about a nifty tool in your Google Business engagement strategy. You’ll find it in your Google Business Profile as “Insights”. This feature is like having a crystal ball that lets you peek into how customers interact with your business online.

Introducing Google Business Profile Insights

• What’s It All About?: Think of Insights as your business’s report card. It shows how customers find your profile, what they do once they find it, and other juicy data points.
• Accessing Insights: You can find Insights right in your Google Business Profile dashboard. It’s a goldmine of information, just a few clicks away.

Interpreting Google Business Engagement Data

• How Customers Find You: Insights break down whether customers found you via Google Search or Maps. It’s like knowing whether customers saw your ad in a newspaper or a billboard.
• Customer Actions: Are they visiting your website? Requesting directions? Calling you? This data shows what’s working and what’s not in your online presence.
• Photo Views and Engagement: See how your photos are performing compared to other businesses. If your photos are getting a lot of views, you’re probably nailing it visually!

Tips on Using Insights to Refine Engagement Strategies

1. Spot Trends: Notice a spike in visits to your profile on weekends? Maybe it’s time to post your weekend specials on Fridays.
2. Content Strategy: If you’re getting a lot of views on posts about specific products or services, that’s a sign. More posts on similar topics could be a good idea.
3. Customer Engagement Timing: Insights can show when your profile gets the most views. Use this info to time your posts and updates for maximum visibility.
4. Respond to Customer Interests: If you notice a lot of queries about a particular service or product, make sure to highlight it more in your profile and posts.
5. Geo-Data for Local Marketing: Seeing where your customers are coming from can help in tailoring your local marketing efforts. It’s like knowing where to fish for the best catch!

A Google Business Engagement Example

One of our local clients once noticed a consistent uptick in profile views after they posted about new patio seating for their coffee shop. Insights showed those posts were getting more attention than anything else. So, they doubled-down and started featuring their outdoor space more prominently, both online and in-store. The result? Their patio was packed all season! That’s the power of using Insights to drive your Google Business engagement.

Building a Community Around Your Business

Turning your Google Business Profile into community hubs is not just about promoting what you sell; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and connection. That’s the essence of Google Business engagement.

Fostering Local Collaborations and Shoutouts

• Team Up with Neighbours: Collaborate with nearby businesses for joint promotions or events – like a neighbourhood block party, but for businesses!
• Give Local Shoutouts: Got a supplier or a fellow business you that’s great? Give them a shoutout in your posts. It’s all about spreading the good, and building a network of support.

Hosting and Participating in Community Events

• Be the Eventful Business: Host events that resonate with your community. Whether it’s a local artist showcase, a book reading, or a workshop, use your space to bring people together.
• Promote, Promote, Promote: Use your Google Business Profile to spread the word about these events. Post updates, teasers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses to build excitement.
• Join Local Happenings: Don’t just wait for them to come to you. Be a part of local events, festivals, or charity drives. Then, share your participation and experiences on your profile.

Highlighting Customer Stories and Experiences

• Spotlight on Customers: Feature customer stories or testimonials. It’s a powerful way to show potential customers the human side of your business.
• Share the Love: Got a customer who regularly tags your business in their posts? Repost it on your profile with a thank you note. It’s a small gesture that can mean a lot.
• Invite Participation: Encourage customers to share their experiences or photos using your products or services. It’s a great way to engage and create content that resonates with others.

I remember when I worked in the hospitality industry, in a small town outside the GTA, and our community organized a small farmers’ market in our restaurants’ parking lot. We collaborated with local vendors and used our Google Business Profile to invite the community. It wasn’t just a sale; it was a day of connection and community spirit. We shared photos, shoutouts to vendors, and customer interactions, which not only boosted our profile views but also strengthened our bonds in the neighbourhood.

Building a community around your business is about more than transactions; it’s about interactions, relationships, and shared experiences. Use your Google Business Profile as a platform to nurture this community spirit.

FAQ: Google Business Engagement Using Your Google Business Profile

Conclusion – Google Business Engagement

Alright, my fellow Canadian business trailblazers… We’ve taken a quick trip through the ins and outs of creating a dynamic and engaging Google Business Profile. It’s clear that having a well-managed profile is key to not just surviving but thriving in the online landscape.

The Power of a Dynamic Google Business Profile

• More Than Just a Listing: Remember, your Google Business Profile is your digital handshake with potential customers. It’s where first impressions are formed and relationships begin.
• Showcase Your Business Personality: Through engaging posts, responsive customer interaction, and regular updates, your profile becomes a reflection of your business’s unique character and values.

A Call to Action for Business Owners

• Step Up Your Game: Use these insights and tips to elevate your online presence. It’s time to make your Google Business Profile a buzzing hub of Google Business engagement.
• Stay Consistent and Creative: Keep your profile updated, respond to reviews, post regularly, and never miss a chance to connect with your audience. It’s these little things that make a big difference.

Standing Out – Parting Thoughts for Google Business Engagement

• Be the Business That Stands Out: A well-managed Google Business Profile can be your beacon, shining bright and drawing customers in. Don’t blend in with the heard, instead stand out and be seen.
• Your Online Community Awaits: It’s not just about selling; it’s about building a community and fostering connections. Your Google Business Profile is the perfect tool for this.

Ready to elevate your small business with expert Google Business engagement? Visit the Google Business Profile Management page, to discover our specialized services in creating, updating, and managing Google Business Profiles. Let’s harness the power of local marketing through GMB (Google My Business) to grow your business!

Are you maximizing your potential with Google Business engagement? As a small business owner, it’s crucial to stay ahead. Our interactive quiz is designed to help you assess whether you’re effectively leveraging your Google Business engagement to connect with customers and grow your audience. Take this quick quiz to discover if you could benefit from professional Google Business Profile Management services. Uncover the secrets to enhancing your online presence and driving customer engagement today!