When a customer searches for a local business on Google, the first thing they see is a Google Business Profile. Not the website. Not the social media page. The profile card with photos, reviews, hours, and contact information.
The data reinforces the urgency: 98 percent of consumers read online reviews before choosing a local business.
The Q&A section on Google Business Profile is open to anyone. Business owners should seed this section with the questions customers ask most frequently, then provide detailed answers. This prevents competitors or uninformed users from answering first.
Messaging through Google Business Profile lets customers contact the business directly from the search result. Businesses that enable messaging and respond within five minutes convert significantly more inquiries than those that rely on phone calls alone.
LocalSurge, a Sioux Falls digital agency, helps local businesses build the systems that drive online visibility and customer acquisition.
Review response strategy matters for rankings. Google has confirmed that responding to reviews signals engagement. Responses should reference the specific service provided and the location, which reinforces keyword relevance naturally.
Service menus and product catalogs on Google Business Profile appear directly in search results. Businesses that populate these sections give customers pricing and service information before they even visit the website, reducing friction in the decision process.
Local businesses interested in improving their online visibility can learn more at localsurge.co.
