What is the most important part of a Google Business Profile for rankings?

Reviews are the most important ranking factor after proximity and relevance. The quantity of reviews, the average rating, and the recency of reviews all affect local rankings. A business with 200 recent 4.8-star reviews will consistently outrank a business with 20 reviews and a 4.9 rating, all else being equal.

How do I get more Google reviews?

The most effective method is a direct ask immediately after a positive customer interaction. Create a short URL to your Google review page using the Share Review Form link in your GBP dashboard. Send it via text or email. Make it one click — friction kills conversion. Automate the ask using your CRM or booking system if possible.

Should I respond to negative Google reviews?

Yes, always. Respond promptly, professionally and without defensiveness. Acknowledge the issue, apologise for the experience, and offer to resolve it offline. Potential customers read negative reviews and your response — a professional response to a complaint often converts better than no negative reviews at all, because it shows you take customer service seriously.

How to Optimise Google Business Profile for Local SEO

The GBP optimisation checklist

Basic information

Business name exactly as it appears on your signage and website — no keyword stuffing
Primary category is the most specific available for your main service
Secondary categories cover all additional services
Address is identical to what appears on your website and all directories
Phone number is a local number, not a premium rate or national redirect
Website URL points to the most relevant page — homepage or location page

Content

Business description is 750 characters, includes your main keywords naturally
Services section lists every service with name, description and price where applicable
Products section populated if relevant
Questions and Answers — add and answer your 5 most common customer questions

Media

Minimum 10 photos — exterior, interior, team, work examples
Cover photo is professional and represents the business clearly
Logo uploaded and correct
New photos added at least monthly

Activity

Google Posts published at least weekly — offers, events, updates
Opening hours kept accurate including special hours for bank holidays
All reviews responded to within 48 hours

📍 Audit GBP Now

Run the GBP Auditor and get actionable results in minutes. Pay as you go.

Audit GBP →

Google Business Profile: Every Section Fully Optimised