Ignite Your Leads: Why Contractors Can’t Ignore Google Business Profiles!

Contractors, buckle up—this is where the real fun begins. If you’re not on Google Business Profile (GBP), you’re missing out on a tidal wave of local leads. Ready for lift-off? Follow these powerhouse steps:

1. Claim & Verify Your Profile
   • Sign in to Google: Create a business-specific Gmail (e.g., YourBizName@gmail.com) to keep everything organized and professional.
   • Google Business Dashboard: Head to google.com/business and click “Manage Now.” Search for your business name—if it exists, claim it; if not, build it from scratch.
   • Verify ASAP: Google’s postcard-by-mail method takes up to 14 days, but sometimes phone or email verification is available. As soon as you get that verification code, jump back into the dashboard and secure your profile.
2. Optimize Your Business Details
   • Precise Business Name: Use your exact, real-world name—no keyword stuffing (e.g., avoid “Joe’s Plumbing – Best Plumbing Service Orlando”).
   • Categories & Service Areas: Pick the most specific primary category (e.g., “Residential Plumber”) and add up to nine secondary ones like “Emergency Plumber” or “Water Heater Installation.”
   • Business Hours & Contact Info: Use a local phone number instead of a toll-free line—local signals boost local SEO. If you’re on-call 24/7, specify it (“By Appointment Only” or “24 Hours”).
   • Compelling Description: With 750 characters, highlight what makes you unique—family-owned since 1998? Licensed, insured, bonded? Sprinkle in keywords naturally (e.g., “Tampa emergency plumber”).
3. Add Photos & Videos That Pop
   • Logo & Cover Image: Use a crisp, square logo (250×250px) and a high-resolution cover photo (1080×608px).
   • Project & Team Shots: Before-and-after photos are gold: show that leaky pipe transform or that kitchen remodel glow-up. Team shots humanize your brand—people love seeing faces behind the tools.
   • Quick Videos: A 15–30 second clip explaining a service (e.g., “Troubleshooting a Running Toilet”) can set you apart.

Profiles with five or more photos are 2.7× more likely to be perceived as reputable⁴. Keep it fresh: add at least 1–2 new photos each month. Curious about why GBP matters in the first place? Head back to 🔥 Ignite Your Leads: Why Contractors Can’t Ignore Google Business Profiles! And when you’ve mastered these basics, level up with 💥 GBP Mastery: Reviews, Maintenance & Pro Hacks to Dominate Local.

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