If you’re a small business or a digital agency helping local clients grow, you may have wondered: Does Google My Business still matter for local SEO in 2025? The short answer is—absolutely! 😊
Despite the evolution of SEO tools and algorithms, Google My Business (now known as Google Business Profile) remains one of the most powerful and free tools to improve local search visibility. Whether you’re running a dental clinic, a restaurant, or a freelance web design service, your presence on Google Business Profile can directly impact how easily customers find and trust you online.
Let’s break down exactly why Google My Business still matters for local SEO and how to use it effectively.
1. It’s the First Thing People See in Local Searches 👀
When someone searches for a service like “SEO agency near me” or “best pizza in Dallas,” Google usually displays a local 3-pack—a map with the top three local listings. These results come from Google Business Profiles.
That means if your profile is optimized, you’re more likely to appear in that 3-pack. And appearing there gives you more visibility, more website clicks, and more phone calls—often ahead of even high-ranking organic results.
2. It’s Free—and Drives Real Leads 💼
One of the biggest reasons Google My Business still matters for local SEO is that it offers free exposure with high intent. People using local search terms are usually ready to take action. They’re not just browsing—they’re looking to book, visit, or buy.
By having an updated profile, you can:
- Display your phone number
- Let users click for directions
- Add a booking button
- Showcase reviews and ratings
- Post offers and updates
All of this adds up to lead generation—without any paid ads.
3. Customer Reviews Build Trust 🗣️
In local SEO, reputation is everything. Google Business Profile lets customers leave reviews, and those reviews help build your credibility.
Businesses with 4-star ratings and above tend to get more clicks and conversions. And since Google uses review quantity and quality as ranking signals, your positive feedback can help you show up higher in search results.
Don’t forget to reply to reviews (both good and bad). It shows you care about your customers and improves engagement—which Google loves.
4. You Can Post Updates and Offers 📰
Many businesses don’t know that you can publish posts on your Google Business Profile. It works like a mini-blog or promotional space. You can share:
- Special discounts
- Announcements
- Events
- Blog links
- Product highlights
This keeps your profile active and gives visitors more reasons to engage. Plus, fresh posts show Google that your business is active, which may help rankings.
5. It Helps With Voice Search Optimization 🗣️
With the rise of voice search—like “Hey Google, find a hair salon near me”—your Google Business Profile plays a huge role. Voice assistants pull data from Google listings to give recommendations.
So if your profile is optimized with accurate location info, services, and categories, you’ll increase your chances of being the chosen answer.
6. Google Insights Provide Powerful Local Data 📊
Google Business Profile also offers analytics through its “Insights” section. Here you can track:
- How many people found you via direct vs discovery searches
- How users interacted with your listing (calls, clicks, directions)
- Which photos and posts performed best
These insights help you refine your strategy and improve local engagement.
7. It Supports Multi-Location Businesses 🗺️
If you have multiple locations, Google Business Profile lets you manage them all in one place. Each branch can have its own optimized listing, allowing you to target hyperlocal keywords and improve your chances of ranking for each location.
This is crucial for franchises or service-based businesses working across cities or regions.
8. It Sends Local Signals to Google’s Algorithm ⚙️
Google uses several signals to decide how to rank local businesses, including:
- Proximity to the searcher
- Relevance to the search term
- Prominence (activity, links, and reviews)
Your Google Business Profile plays a part in all three. An optimized profile, updated regularly with accurate info, relevant services, and great reviews sends strong local SEO signals to Google.
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile in 2025 ✅
To get the most out of your listing:
- Fill out every section: name, address, phone number, website, business hours, services, etc.
- Choose the right business category (and add secondary categories if needed)
- Upload high-quality photos
- Post updates weekly
- Collect and respond to reviews
- Use keywords naturally in your business description
Doing this consistently helps your listing rise in local search results and keeps it engaging for potential customers.
Final Thoughts 😊
Now that you know why Google My Business still matters for local SEO, it’s time to take full advantage of it. This free tool offers real visibility, trust-building features, and lead-generating potential. Whether you’re helping clients or managing your own business, a well-maintained Google Business Profile can make a real difference in your local success.
And if you need help generating more SEO leads or optimizing your local strategy, WebsiteSeoLeads is here to support your growth. 🚀 WebsiteSeoLeads