“Do I need a website to get my business noticed?” It’s a question we hear all the time. While having a website is important in the long run, for local businesses just starting out, there’s a faster, more effective way to get in front of your customers: setting up your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).
When you start a business it is important to focus your marketing efforts on results-driven strategies that meet customers where they already are. And where are they? Searching Google. In this blog, we’ll explain why creating a Google Business Profile should be your first move, even before building a website, and how it can immediately start generating leads for your business.
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Immediate Visibility in Local Search
Think about this: when someone in your area searches for “cozy café near me” or “emergency plumber,” where do they look first? Google Search and Maps. With a fully optimized Google My Business, your business can appear in those critical search results—even if you don’t have a website.
What’s in it for your business?
- Your listing shows up in the coveted “local pack” (the top three search results with a map).
- Customers can find your phone number, address, and reviews instantly.
This means immediate visibility where it matters most. No website? No problem. Your customers will still find you.
Faster Setup with Higher ROI
Setting up a Google Business Profile is quick, easy, and free. Unlike building a website, which can take weeks or even months (depending on the complexity of your services offered, your Google Profile can be up and running in under an hour. And the results? They’re almost instant.
Twinning Pros principle: Don’t waste time and money when there’s a quicker way to reach your audience. Google Business Profile offers:
- Instant exposure to local customers.
- A direct path for customers to call, message, or visit your location.
Your profile works 24/7 as a digital storefront while you focus on running your business.
Enhanced Customer Engagement
Your customers don’t need to visit a website to connect with you. A Google Business Profile offers everything they need at their fingertips:
- One-click calls: Make it easy for customers to reach you.
- Direct messaging: Answer questions quickly without extra tools.
- Directions: Ensure customers can find your location easily.
- Customer reviews: Build trust and credibility with star ratings and testimonials.
What this means for your business: You’re reducing friction and making it easier for people to choose you over competitors.
Designed for a Mobile-First World
Did you know that over 60% of searches come from mobile devices? People are looking for solutions on the go, and they’re relying on Google Maps and Search to make fast decisions.
Twinning Pros Marketing Tip: Meet your customers where they are. A Google Business Profile ensures you’re there when they’re searching. Whether it’s a mom looking for a daycare near her or a tourist searching for the best pizza spot in town, your business becomes the easy choice.
The Local SEO Boost You Can’t Ignore
Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful tools for local SEO. Even without a website, an optimized profile helps you:
- Rank higher in local search results.
- Appear in the “near me” searches that dominate local queries.
- Gain authority and trust by keeping your information accurate and up-to-date.
And here’s the best part: when you eventually build your website, your Google Business Profile and website work together to amplify your SEO efforts.
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Ready to get started? Here’s how to make the most of your Google Business Profile:
- Complete Your Profile: Fill out every section—name, address, phone number (NAP), hours, photos, and services.
- Use Keywords: Include relevant keywords in your business description and posts to improve search visibility.
- Add Photos: Showcase your business with high-quality images.
- Encourage Reviews: Ask happy customers to leave reviews. These build trust and boost your ranking.
- Keep It Updated: Regularly update your profile with new posts, offers, and information.
Final Thoughts: Why Google Business Profile Comes First
For local businesses, a website is important—but it’s not the first step. A Google Business Profile is faster, easier, and immediately connects you with local customers. It’s the ultimate low-cost, high-impact tool to establish your online presence and start generating leads.
Your focus when it comes to marketing should always be on strategies that deliver the most value with the least friction. And right now, there’s no better way to do that than by getting your Google Business Profile set up and optimized.
If you need help getting started, the team at Twinning Pros Marketing is here to help. Let’s make your business the first one customers find when they search.
Related reading: 7 ways Virtual Tours can boost SEO for your business
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Google Business Profile more important than a website?
They do different jobs. GBP is essential for showing in the local pack on Search/Maps, while your website wins broader organic rankings and conversions you control. Use both for best results.
How does Google rank local businesses in the map pack?
Local rankings are based mainly on relevance, distance, and prominence (popularity). Completing your profile and keeping details accurate helps Google match you to searches.
Do reviews really affect my local ranking?
Yes. More reviews and higher ratings can improve prominence and help your business rank better locally. Replying to reviews also helps your profile stand out.
If I have a strong GBP, do I still need a website?
Yes. Google shut down the free GBP “business.site” websites in March 2024; redirects ended June 10, 2024. You still need a real site (e.g., WordPress/Wix/Shopify) for content, conversions, and long-term SEO.
Can customers still message me through my Business Profile?
No. Google ended Business Profile chat and call history on July 31, 2024. Consider alternate messaging (SMS, Facebook, website chat).
What ongoing actions help my GBP perform?
Keep info accurate (hours, services, phone), add photos, and respond to reviews—these actions improve visibility and user trust.
Should I post updates or offers on my Profile?
Yes. Use “Posts/Updates” to share announcements, events, and offers directly on Search/Maps to influence customer decisions.
What’s the best way to think about GBP vs. website?
GBP = local discovery and reputation signals. Website = depth, authority, and conversions. Link them: add your site to your Profile and align messaging on both.
What if my business moves or changes hours?
Update your Profile promptly. Complete, accurate data increases your chances of showing up for local searches.
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