Fall is often a busy time of year for home service providers because homeowners experience a slower pace after the summer days of vacations and having kids at home between school breaks. They also begin thinking about projects they want to do before the winter holidays arrive. If you manage a home service company, early fall is a great time to review your Google Business Profile and ensure your online information is accurate. Follow our checklist to ensure you have all the basics covered.

Why Is My Google Business Profile Valuable?

Your company’s Google Business Profile (GBP) is extremely important because it is often the first interaction customers have with your business. A GBP is what connects customers to local, relevant companies that offer the services they need. Your goal is to have your services listed, as well as other valuable information, that attracts customers and encourages people to investigate your company further. Your GBP should be up to date, accurate, active, and attractive to potential customers.

What are the 10 Things on the Checklist to Update for Fall?

1: Refresh Your Business’s Description

Ensure your information is accurate, including who you are as a company, the types of services you offer, the areas you serve, and why people should work with you. 

2: Verify Your Contact Information

Check your company name, phone number(s), email address, company’s physical address, and service areas. If this info is incorrect, future customers will be unable to reach you and may look elsewhere.

3: Add All of Your Services

Check the services you have listed and decide if any of them have changed. Have you added or removed services, or do you offer seasonal services? If so, then correct the list. 

4: Upload Fresh Project Photos

Outdated photos can distract future customers. Make sure your new photos are taken in the current season and include the types of services you currently offer. Pictures help customers visualize the type of work you do, so showcase the best of the photos. 

5: Update Your Business Hours

Have your business hours changed since your last inspection of your GBP? Check weekday, weekend, and emergency hours, too. 

6: Collect New Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are vital for building trust in your company and helping prospective customers make decisions about your business.

7: Respond to Every Review

By responding to all customer reviews, you demonstrate interest, activity, and professionalism. 

8: Publish Google Business Profile Posts

Stay up to date on your GBP by posting current industry awards and company events. 

9: Review Your Business Categories

Ensure your business is listed in the best Google-created category or subcategory for your purpose. 

10: Review and Update Your Service Areas

If you have expanded or decreased your service area, make sure your GBP reflects the changes.

Bottom Line

Your Google Business Profile is an important part of your brand’s advertising and should be evaluated regularly to ensure your company’s information is accurate. Additionally, all company information should be consistent across all platforms, including your website, social media, printed materials, and other advertising channels. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it reasonable to only update my Google Business Profile in the fall?
You should regularly evaluate and update your Google Business Profile, not just once a year. Check your profile monthly to make any updates, add photos, or respond to new customer reviews. At least a few times a year, conduct a thorough evaluation of your GBP and check all contact information, service hours, service details, and other features that have changed over the last few months. 

Why are photos important for my Google Business Profile, and what types of photos should I add to my GBP?
Photos are valuable because they let customers see the type of work you do and the type of equipment you use. You can also showcase your team members, seasonal photos, awards, and other aspects of your company. 

How important are customer reviews and how many should I aim for on my GBP?
Customer reviews are very important because they are often viewed by potential customers who want to learn more about your services, talents, and professionalism. The number of reviews you have is important, but more importantly is the recency and quality of your reviews and your responses to them. Always strive to acquire new reviews and respond to them to highlight good customer service and interest to your customers.