Google Business Profile Posts.
Some don’t know they exist. Others assume they don’t do much.
But when someone is searching for a service, a well-placed GBP post could be the reason they choose you over a competitor.
At first, I used GBP posts like a social media feed, posting random updates just to keep things active. Being honest, I still do this every now and then. You can check for yourself. When you’re busy, it’s hard to think of fresh content or come up with an offer that actually gets people to call, book or buy.
Over time, I have learned that the only GBP posts worth posting are the ones that drive action. Offers, events and clear calls to action.
If you use them like that, GBP posts can bring in more calls, more bookings and more customers.
Do GBP Posts Actually Do Anything?
Your Google Business Profile is one of the first things people see when searching for your service (subject to your business ranking high for the search term or a branded term). Some won’t even visit your website. They will decide based on what they see in the search results.
A strong GBP post makes you stand out. If your competitor has nothing on their profile, but you have a limited-time offer, a great review or a clear call to action, who do you think they will call first?
Even if you rank high and have the strongest reputation management strategies in play, some customers will still have doubts. They might check out a few competitors before deciding. A well-placed post, whether it is an offer, event or service reminder, can push them to take action.
Google also rewards businesses that keep their profile updated. A fresh post can help with visibility and makes your business look active.
And, this should also enhance engagement time, which is a positive signal to the continually changing algorithm, right?
What Posts Should I Do for my Google Business Profile?
Not all GBP posts are useful. Some are a waste of time. The best ones push customers to take action. I’ll share my favourites here and this may give you something to consider.
Offers and Promotions
People love a deal. An offer can be the final push they need to contact you. Giving people an incentive is great, and offers are a fantastic way for generating new leads. Use this wisely!
Here are some examples of promotions to combine with an eye-catching image:
- “10% off boiler servicing this week, call now to book.”
- “Free consultation for new clients, limited spots available.”
Call to Action Posts
Sometimes people just need a nudge. GBP posts should tell them exactly what to do next.
- “Emergency plumber available 24/7, call now.”
- “We have limited nursery spaces left, enquire today.”
Customer Reviews and Social Proof
People trust reviews. If they see others recommend you, they will feel more confident about booking. The thing is, your Google Business Profile may already have 100+ reviews. They’d have already seen that, too.
So, why does this work? Not everyone will look through the reviews, nevermind find the best ones. You can also use reviews from other platforms here and create them into an image to showcase as a Google Business Profile post.
- “Another 5-star review, brilliant service, would highly recommend.”
- “This is the best restaurant I’ve ever been to.”
Service Highlights
Do not assume customers know what you do. They don’t. I tell people I help businesses generate more leads by ranking them higher on search engines. I should tone it down a bit, because people still don’t quite get it. Use this type of post to link people to a service, combine with an offer, review and a call to action and you’ve just created a fantastic post.
- “We don’t just fix leaks, we offer full bathroom renovations.”
- “Our electricians are NICEIC certified, meaning your home is in safe hands.”
Which Post Type Should You Use?
Google gives you 3 types of posts. Each one serves a different purpose and you’ll need to be aware of which post type best suits your requirements as posts will get removed by Google. From previous experience, they aren’t shy to do this either… Be very clear with your wording and the pictures too.
Update Posts
Best for small announcements. Useful, but not the most effective for driving leads.
- Example: “We’ve moved, our new address is 123 High Street.”
Event Posts
Good for limited-time offers or upcoming events.
- Example: “Join us for a free home renovation workshop this Saturday.”
Offer Posts
The most powerful option. These posts include an expiry date and a call to action button.
- Example: “20% off boiler servicing, offer expires Friday.”
If you want more calls and bookings, offer posts should be your priority.
Final Thoughts
If you are not using GBP posts, you are leaving money on the table. They can be the difference between a customer choosing you or your competitor.
Start posting with a purpose. Make sure every post pushes people to take action. If you are not sure where to start, take a look at your competitors, see what they are doing and do it better.
Need help making the most of your Google Business Profile? Get in touch.
I’m Calum, Owner of Everyday Digital.
I write about Local SEO, Google Business Profile and how businesses can get found on Google to increase their leads.
