For many local businesses, a Google Business Profile (formerly GMB) is often the first point of contact for potential customers. You might be showing up in searches and getting views, but if the calls aren’t coming in, it’s a clear signal that your GMB performance and overall local SEO strategy need attention.

In this article, we’ll explore the common mistakes affecting your profile’s effectiveness and how to optimize it to turn online searches into real calls.

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Business Information

Missing phone numbers, outdated addresses, or inconsistent business hours can confuse or frustrate users. If someone can’t trust your profile, they won’t call.

Solution:

1. Fill out all details in your profile, including contact info, categories, and services.

2. Ensure your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) are consistent across all listings.

3. Keep business hours updated, especially during holidays.

A complete profile boosts credibility and strengthens your GMB performance in local searches.

2. Lack of Reviews or Social Proof

Potential customers rely heavily on reviews. Few or negative reviews can discourage people from contacting you.

Solution:

1. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews.

2. Respond professionally to all feedback.

3. Highlight testimonials in your posts or updates.

Active engagement with reviews is an essential part of local SEO and GMB optimization, showing Google and users that your business is trustworthy.

3. Weak Visual Content

Profiles without photos or videos appear inactive. Visuals help users feel confident about contacting your business.

Solution:

1. Upload high-quality photos of your location, staff, and products.

2. Include short videos demonstrating your services or facilities.

3. Update visuals regularly to maintain relevance.

   Profiles with engaging media consistently see improved GMB performance.

4. Incorrect Category Selection

Choosing broad or irrelevant categories can lead to mismatched searches, reducing calls.

Solution:

1. Select the most specific primary category.

2. Add relevant secondary categories.

3. Periodically review categories to align with business growth.

Correct categorization ensures your profile reaches the right audience, a key aspect of local SEO and GMB optimization.

5. Neglecting Posts and Updates

Active profiles are rewarded by Google and trusted by users. Ignoring posts can make your business appear inactive.

Solution:

1. Publish weekly updates, special offers, or FAQs.

2. Use posts to address customer questions or highlight services.

3. Include clear calls-to-action like “Call Now” or “Book Appointment.”
   
   Regular posts improve engagement and overall GMB performance.

6. Ignoring Q&A Section

Unanswered questions create a perception of poor customer support.

Solution:

1. Monitor and answer questions promptly.

2. Pre-fill common questions to assist visitors.

3. Keep answers clear and helpful.

Active Q&A management enhances trust and contributes to better local SEO and GMB optimization.

Learn More: Not Getting Calls from GMB? Here’s What You’re Doing Wrong