The Power of Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you run a small business in North Tonawanda, Buffalo, Amherst, Tonawanda, Williamsville, or anywhere in Western New York, having a Google Business Profile (GBP) isn’t just a nice extra, it’s essential. Your Google Business Profile is what shows up when people search for businesses like yours on Google Search or Google Maps. It’s often the very first impression a potential customer will have of your brand online. The good news? Setting it up (or optimizing it) doesn’t have to be complicated.
Why Google Business Profile Matters
- Show up locally: When someone searches “web design in Buffalo, NY” or “coffee shop in Tonawanda,” businesses with optimized GBPs appear at the top of results.
- Build trust instantly: Reviews, photos, and accurate contact info reassure potential clients that your business is credible.
- Free marketing tool: Unlike ads, your GBP is free to set up and helps boost visibility without draining your budget.
- Better SEO: Google prioritizes verified, complete business listings when showing local results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Google Business Profile
Step 1: Claim Your Business
Go to Google Business Profile, sign in with your Google account, and search for your business. If it already exists, claim it; if not, create a new listing.
Step 2: Add Business Info
Fill out your business name (Craftology WNY Web Design & Development), category (Web Designer, Graphic Designer), and your location. If you don’t have a storefront, check the option “I deliver goods and services to my customers” and list North Tonawanda, Buffalo, Amherst, Tonawanda, Williamsville, West Seneca, and Orchard Park as your service areas.
Step 3: Add Contact Details
Include your phone number, email, website, and business hours. This makes it super easy for customers to reach you.
Step 4: Upload Photos & Branding
Show off your work! Add website screenshots, logo designs, and behind-the-scenes shots of your creative process. Profiles with photos get significantly more clicks.
Step 5: Collect & Respond to Reviews
Ask happy clients to leave reviews and always reply, Google loves to see active engagement. Reviews with local keywords (like “best web designer in Buffalo”) can boost your ranking.
Keep It Fresh
Google favors active profiles, so don’t just set it and forget it. Post updates, share blog links, promote special offers, and highlight client projects. It’s a simple way to stay top-of-mind with people searching for your services.
Ready to Boost Your Local Visibility?
At Craftology WNY Web Design & Development, we help small businesses and startups in North Tonawanda, Tonawanda, Amherst, Williamsville, West Seneca, Orchard Park, and across Western New York build professional websites and strengthen their online presence. From web design and development to branding, logo design, SEO, and website maintenance, we’re here to help your business succeed—without breaking the bank.
Contact us today to get started on your digital refresh!