When someone searches for «hardware store in Cumbayá» or «accountant near me», the first thing they see isn't websites but a map with three highlighted businesses. Showing up there doesn't depend on an ad budget but on a free tool many businesses have only half filled in: the Google Business Profile.
1. Claim and verify your profile
Search for your business on Google Maps. If it already appears, claim the listing; if not, create it from Google Business Profile. Google will ask you to verify that you're the owner, for example with a video of the premises or a code. Until you verify, your changes won't be shown.
2. Choose the right primary category
It's one of the factors that most influences which searches you appear in. Be specific: «Hardware store» is better than «Store». You can add secondary categories for other services you offer, but don't overdo it.
3. Identical details everywhere
Name, address and phone number should be written exactly the same on your profile, your website, your social media and any directories you're listed in. Inconsistencies confuse Google and reduce trust. If you don't serve customers at a physical location, you can set a service area instead of showing an address.
4. Keep opening hours up to date
A customer crosses the city on a public holiday because Google said «Open» and finds the shutters down. That lost visit often ends in a one-star review. Set special hours for each holiday in advance; Ecuador has several each year and they're easy to forget.
5. Real photos
Upload photos of your storefront, the interior, your team and your products. Profiles with photos get more direction requests and more website visits. Avoid stock images: people want to see what your business is really like.
6. Ask for reviews and reply to all of them
Reviews influence both your position and the customer's decision. Ask satisfied customers for them with a direct link, right after a good experience. And reply to every one, including the negative ones: a kind, specific reply to a complaint shows more professionalism than a flawless profile.
Tip: your Business Profile gives you a direct link for leaving a review. Put it in your email signature, on invoices or on a QR code at the counter: the fewer steps, the more reviews.
7. Post updates
The profile lets you publish offers, events and news. You don't need to do it every day; one post every week or two keeps your listing active and fresh.
8. Connect your profile to your website
Link your site from the profile and make sure the website loads fast on mobile and shows your contact details clearly. Many customers check the map, then your website, and only then call.
Do this this week
- Verify your profile and check the primary category.
- Compare name, address and phone with your website.
- Upload five real photos.
- Reply to every pending review.
A well-kept profile brings the visit; a fast, clear website turns it into a call. At eXpertweb we work on both together as part of our digital marketing service.