Why Google Business Profile Is One of the Most Underrated Ways to Drive Website Traffic
If you’re a small business owner trying to increase website traffic, you’ve probably heard the usual advice: Post more on social media. Run ads. Start email marketing. Improve your SEO.
All of that can help. But one of the most effective tools I’ve personally used to bring in real leads (especially in between referrals) is one that many business owners either ignore or barely set up:
Google Business Profile.
This is one of the few marketing tools that places your business directly in front of people who are already searching for what you offer. And that’s exactly why it works.
Why Google Business Works So Well
A lot of marketing requires convincing people they need your service. Google Business is different. Google is where people go when they’ve already decided they need something. They’re not casually browsing—they’re actively searching.
When someone searches:
“web designer near me”
“website designer Baltimore”
“Squarespace web designer”
“help fixing my website”
Google Business listings often show up before regular website results. That means your business has a chance to show up immediately, with:
Your business name
A quick description of what you do
Reviews
Photos
Your service area
Your website link
A call button
A directions button (if applicable)
It’s basically a mini sales page inside Google. And if your profile is set up correctly, it can drive website clicks without you spending money on ads.
How Google Business Has Helped Me Personally
As the owner of Webz by Elise, I’ve had multiple moments where I received inquiries from people who weren’t referrals, weren’t following me on social media, and had never heard of me before.
They simply found my Google Business Profile, clicked my website, and reached out. That kind of visibility is powerful because it fills the gaps between your other marketing efforts.
Referrals might come in waves. Social media can be inconsistent. But Google search traffic tends to stay steady because people search every day.
What Makes Google Business So Valuable for Website Traffic
1. It increases trust immediately
Google reviews build credibility faster than almost anything else. When people see positive reviews, they’re more likely to click your website and take you seriously.
2. It captures high-intent clients
These are not casual browsers. They’re looking for help right now. That’s the best kind of website traffic.
3. It boosts your local SEO
Even if you’re service-based, Google still prioritizes businesses that show a clear service area. A strong profile can help you show up in “near me” searches and regional results.
4. It supports everything else you’re doing
Your social media posts, your website, your referrals, your networking, Google Business strengthens all of it by giving people another place to verify that you’re legitimate and active.
Easy Steps to Set Up Your Google Business Profile (The Right Way)
If you don’t have a Google Business Profile yet, this is your sign to create one.
Here are the key steps:
Step 1: Claim or create your listing
Go to Google Business Profile and search your business name. If it exists, claim it. If not, create it.
Step 2: Choose the right category
Your category matters more than most people realize. Choose the one that most directly matches your service.
Step 3: Add your services and service areas
Don’t leave this blank. Google uses this information to decide when to show your listing.
Step 4: Add your website link
This is where the traffic happens. Make sure your website is linked properly. Surprisingly, some people forget this step!!!
Step 5: Write a strong business description
Use clear language that includes what you do, who you help, and where you serve.
Step 6: Upload photos consistently
Photos build trust and increase engagement. Add branding photos, behind-the-scenes images, and even screenshots of your work if relevant.
Step 7: Ask for reviews
This is the part most people skip. Reviews are one of the biggest ranking factors. Even 5–10 strong reviews can dramatically improve your listing.
Step 8: Post updates regularly
Google lets you post updates just like social media. Even one post per week helps show that your business is active.
Google Business Matters Even More Now Because of AI
As Google continues rolling out AI-powered search results, your Google Business Profile is becoming more than just a listing; it’s a key source of information Google uses to understand and recommend local businesses.
AI-driven search pulls from structured, trusted sources, and Google Business Profiles are among the most “readable” places for Google to gather details such as your services, location, hours, photos, and customer feedback.
Even more importantly, reviews now act like searchable data. The words your clients use in reviews help Google associate your business with specific services and keywords, making it easier for you to show up when someone searches for exactly what you offer.
In a world where search is shifting from “scrolling results” to “Google recommending answers,” having an active, optimized Google Business Profile helps you stay visible and competitive, without relying on paid ads.
One Quick Tip That Makes a Huge Difference
If you want more website clicks, make sure your website is actually ready for that traffic. Because if someone clicks through and lands on a confusing homepage, outdated layout, or unclear service page, you lose the lead even if Google delivered the traffic. Google can bring them in, but your website has to convert them.
Final Thought: If You’re Not on Google, You’re Missing People Who Are Already Looking
Social media is great for awareness. Google is where people go when they’re ready to hire. And if your business isn’t showing up there consistently, you’re leaving potential inquiries on the table.
Stop Thinking About It. Do It.
If you want help optimizing your Google Business Profile or making sure your website is ready to convert that traffic into real leads, send me a message.
Email hello@webzbyelise.com to learn more or book a consultation below.
