Optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) for your barbershop is essential for improving visibility, attracting more customers, and increasing bookings. Follow this checklist to ensure your profile stands out in local searches.
1. Choose the Right Business Category
Your primary category should reflect your highest revenue-generating service. For example, “Barber shop” or “hair salon.” You can add up to nine additional categories to cover other services you offer.
2. Optimize Your Website Link
Link directly to your website homepage or local landing page and not social media pages. Google does not allow social media links in this section, and a direct website link improves ranking.
3. Manage and Respond to Reviews
Reviews are a major ranking factor and influence customer trust. Use the “Ask for Review” feature to encourage satisfied clients to leave feedback. Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, to build engagement and credibility.
4. Keep Your Business Hours Updated
Ensure your listed hours are accurate. Customers frustrated by outdated hours may leave negative reviews or take their business elsewhere.
5. Add an Appointment Booking Link
Allow clients to book directly from your profile by adding an appointment link. If you don’t have an online booking system, explore platforms designed for barbershops.
6. Include Your “Years in Business”
Establish trust by adding your opening date under Edit Profile > Opening Date. Google will display the total years you’ve been in business.
7. Utilize Business Attributes
Highlight special features such as “wheelchair accessible” or “women-owned” to attract specific audiences searching for these attributes.
8. Enable the “Questions & Answers” Feature
Add frequently asked questions about services, pricing, or promotions to your profile. Boost visibility by getting at least three likes on preferred questions to feature them at the top.
9. Upload High-Quality Photos and Videos
Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks than those without. Regularly update your profile with professional images showcasing your shop, staff, and services.
10. List Your Products and Services
Use the “Edit Services” or “Edit Products” sections to showcase offerings, including images, prices, and service categories.
11. Use Google Posts for Updates
Engage potential clients with Google Posts, similar to social media updates. Share promotions, new services, or events to keep your profile active and informative.
12. Activate Messaging for Direct Inquiries
Turn on Google Messaging to allow potential customers to contact you directly from your profile for inquiries or bookings.
In Summary:
Optimizing your Google Business Profile is crucial for boosting visibility, attracting more customers, and increasing bookings for your barbershop. Start by selecting the right business category and adding relevant additional categories to ensure your services are accurately represented. Linking to your local landing page improves search rankings, while actively gathering customer reviews helps build trust and credibility. Keeping your business hours updated prevents frustration among potential clients, and displaying your years in business reinforces your shop’s reputation. High-quality photos enhance engagement, making your listing more appealing, while adding detailed product and service descriptions provides clarity on your offerings. Leveraging Google Posts keeps your profile active with updates, promotions, and special events. By implementing these strategies, your barbershop can rank higher in local search results, attract more clients, and drive consistent growth. Need more barber SEO services?
