Running a local business without optimizing your Google My Business profile is the same as opening a store without signage. Even if you’re in the busiest part of town, customers will walk by — unsure of what you offer or if you’re even open.
In our digital-focused world, your GMB profile is that all-important beacon that helps local shoppers find you, trust you and choose you over your competitors.
According to WebFX, 46% of all Google searches are location-based — and 80% of those searches result in a sale. With so many potential customers relying on their smartphones for quick “near me” searches, an optimized GMB profile ensures you’re in the spotlight when it matters most.
But what should you include? How can you make your business stand out with photos and reviews? You have questions, we have answers.
Let’s explore the do’s and don’ts of GMB so you can turn online curiosity into real-life sales.
The importance of a strong GMB profile for mattress retailers
Being active on GMB does more than improve visibility to local customers — it can also land you in Google’s coveted Local Map Pack (the top three results shown on Google Maps). Placement here gives your store an instant credibility boost, driving more foot traffic and showing customers that your business is trusted by the local community. The more visible and trustworthy you appear online, the more likely customers will walk through your doors.
Follow these do’s for a strong GMB profile that converts
To get the most out of your GMB profile, focus on giving Google the information it needs to list you as a local business. Then move on to how you can grab customer attention quickly — you only have seconds to impress and engage them before they move on.
- Complete your profile. Ensure all your basic information is filled out accurately — your business name, address, phone number and website. An incomplete profile makes your business look unprofessional and can lower your ranking in Google’s algorithm.
- Upload high-quality photos. Images are a powerful way to showcase your store. Add clear, high-quality photos of your mattresses, showroom and staff to help potential customers feel more comfortable. According to Google, businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites.
- Encourage reviews. Think of reviews as digital word-of-mouth recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask all your customers to leave a review on your GMB profile. A steady stream of reviews improves your credibility and can push your business higher in local search rankings.
- Post regular updates. The GMB “Posts” feature allows you to share updates, promotions, new arrivals and sales events. Regularly scheduled content keeps your profile fresh and shows customers that your business is active, enticing potential buyers to visit your store.
Avoid these don’ts on your GMB profile
While optimizing your GMB profile is essential, avoiding pitfalls is just as important.
- Don’t let inaccurate information turn customers off. Regularly check to ensure your business name, address, phone number and hours of operation are current. Incorrect details can frustrate customers and may lead them to visit your store when it’s closed, causing a negative experience before they even walk through your door. Keeping your information up to date is critical for maintaining customer trust.
- Don’t ignore the power of images. Whether it’s social media memes, authentic photos of your actual products, showroom and staff, high-quality images help create a more trustworthy and genuine connection.
- Don’t ignore negative reviews. Negative reviews are inevitable but ignoring them is a missed opportunity. Respond professionally and empathetically. Acknowledge the issue, offer a solution and thank the customer for their feedback. This shows potential customers that you care about their experience and are committed to continuous improvement.
- Don’t set it and forget it. Your GMB profile requires regular updates to stay relevant. Don’t let outdated information or inactive posts hurt your visibility. Regularly updating your profile with new promotions, photos and posts keeps your business fresh and engaging for both Google’s algorithm and your customers.
Optimizing your GMB profile to increase sales
Your GMB profile is more than just an online listing tool — it’s a powerful platform that can directly influence your sales.
- Leverage posts for promotions. The GMB “Posts” feature allows you to share timely updates like promotions, discounts or seasonal sales directly with your customers. Whether it’s a holiday mattress sale or a limited-time offer on accessories, GMB posts appear prominently in search results, helping your offers stand out. Regularly posting about in-store events or exclusive deals can entice potential customers to visit your store or make a purchase online. The visibility of these posts also boosts your local SEO, increasing your chances of appearing in Google’s Local Map Pack.
- Promote events and product launches. GMB isn’t just for ongoing promotions — it’s also a great platform for announcing in-store events or new product launches. By using posts to promote these events, you can build anticipation and drive foot traffic. For example, if you’re hosting a community fundraiser, a well-timed post can alert local customers, encouraging them to visit your store the day of the event.
- Use insights to improve your strategy. GMB Insights offers valuable data on how customers find and interact with your business. You can track which posts attracted the most clicks, how many people called or requested directions and how often customers visited your website. Use this data to refine your marketing strategies, whether that means focusing on promotions that drive the most in-store visits or adjusting your messaging to better align with customer interests.
Optimizing your GMB is an easy but powerful way to boost your store’s local visibility, build customer trust and drive sales. With accurate information, engaging photos, regular updates and smart use of promotions, you can ensure your mattress store stands out in local searches and attracts more foot traffic.
Start by reviewing your GMB profile today. Make sure it’s fully updated and optimized to take advantage of these benefits. By keeping it active and relevant, you’ll position your business for success in both the digital and physical worlds.
