What happens when you Google your business or "restaurants near me"? Go ahead and give it a shot!

If a Google Business Profile doesn't appear at the top of your page or in your Google Map search results, it's time to investigate.

Google My Business (now known as Google Business Profile) is Google's way of lending legitimacy to your business and making it easy to find important info. The problem is that you may not get the most out of your online marketing strategy without Google My Business optimization.

Read on to learn how to optimize Google My Business so that customers can easily access information about your restaurant and choose to visit you.

Keep All Info Up to Date

One of the most valuable features of a Google My Business profile is quick access to critical information like your restaurant's location, hours, and contact information. The problem is that if this information isn't up to date, it signals to your customers that you don't take your business—or their time—very seriously. Plus, Google may now use AI to make changes for you, and those changes may not be accurate.

Use Professional Images

Google My Business also allows potential customers to look at photos associated with your restaurant. Review photos will auto-populate your profile, but you can also add pictures of your own. Of course, blurry or poor-quality photos won't paint your restaurant in the best light, so ensure you share professional-grade images of your interior, popular menu items, and the menu itself to create a solid first impression.

Encourage Reviews

Unsurprisingly, Google has rolled all its various search engines into one user-friendly product. That means that a robust Google My Business profile will also reveal your location on Google Maps—and direct customers to any reviews left for your restaurant on Google Review. Ensure you're encouraging happy customers to leave a review, as over 90% of diners will consult those reviews before deciding where to eat.

Sprinkle in Relevant Keywords

Google My Business profiles will also pop up when people search for relevant keywords, like "restaurants in my neighborhood" or "pizza shops near me." This is where SEO becomes essential because you want to lead the pack in these broad-scale searches. Use relevant keywords in your profile and create keyword-rich Google My Business posts to show Google that you deserve a top spot in their local rankings.

Let R.O.M.A. Handle Google My Business Optimization

If you're unsure how to manage an SEO strategy on top of managing your restaurant, don't sweat it. A strong SEO strategy requires a great website, growing social media engagement, and Google My Business optimization. R.O.M.A. is here to help.

 With personalized digital support, let us take your restaurant's marketing to the next level. Get tailor-made solutions that cater to your unique needs, all in one place! Contact us for more information.