Updated 11/24/2021 to reflect Google My Business's recent name change to Google Business Profile.
Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is a free tool that helps businesses establish and maintain their online presence across Google search and Google Maps.
If you've ever searched for a restaurant on Google, you may have seen a section on the right of the search results that lists the establishment's name, website, location, hours, and pictures. Google Business Profile powers that listing, and it's a powerful channel to reach customers in your area and improve local search engine optimization (SEO).
Imagine the following scenario: You're with friends and looking for a place to grab a burger. You aren't familiar with the area, so you pick up your phone and search for "burger joints near me" or maybe "sports bar in X neighborhood."
The results on your phone are ranked based on how closely Google thinks the restaurants located nearby match what you are searching. One of the factors Google will consider in determining its rankings is your Google Business Profile listing.
"Having your restaurant listed on Google is one of the first major steps you can take in making sure your restaurant and brand is visible online," says Taylor Moon, Senior Web Optimization Specialist at Menufy. If you haven't claimed your restaurant's Google Business Profile listing, now is the time. Here is what you need to know.
Why is Google business profile Important for Restaurants?
According to a recent study, 46 percent of all Google searches are looking for local business information. In other words, nearly half of all searches performed on the search giant are people looking for local restaurants and stores.
If you want to succeed, you need your restaurant to show up in those searches. "Your Google Business Profile listing is like a billboard you see on the side of a major highway. It is of vital importance that you have control over the listing so your customers can not only see the correct information about your business, but direct your customers to your branded website," says Monica Goodman, Client Success Specialist at Menufy.
Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile account is the single most crucial step you can take to improve your restaurant's local SEO and increase foot traffic and online orders. Why? Because your GBP listing provides easy access to a range of information about your location and hours, the type of food you serve, the availability of carryout and delivery, and even the ambiance so that potential customers can make an informed decision. It’s also helpful for potential customers to see recent photos of the exterior of your business, especially if the Google Street View panorama of your storefront is old.
Google Business Profile and Online Ordering
If your restaurant offers online ordering directly, you can choose which website to display on your Google Business Profile listing. Having your own branded online ordering website, such as a Menufy primary website, will reduce restaurant costs compared to third-party directories. These service providers charge high commission fees on orders placed through their portal.
Here’s a sample Google Maps listing viewed in a desktop browser. Notice the “preferred by this business” message after the online ordering website address (boxed in red):
How to Manage Your Restaurant's Google Business Profile Listing
Now that you understand the power of Google Business Profile (GBP), it's time to put this free listing to work for your restaurant. Here's what you need to know. Don't worry; it's easy and free to set up, doesn't require any fancy tools, and will only take a few moments of your time.
Step 1: Claim Your Google Business Profile Listing
The first step is to claim your Google Business Profile listing by confirming to Google that you own the restaurant. Search for your business name and then apply to claim the listing. You may be able to claim it right away by verifying by phone, or you may have to wait for a postcard to be mailed to your place of business.
If your restaurant isn't already listed on Google, you can add it to Google here. If someone else has already claimed your listing, you'll need to request ownership of it. This will send an email requesting access to the last person to claim the listing.
Step 2: Add All the Relevant Information to Your Google Business Profile Listing
Next, you need to optimize your Google Business Profile listing by adding relevant information. Try to add as much detail as possible, such as your website, hours, photographs, and category.
If available, add a few high-resolution images of your most popular dishes, dining area, and points of interest, such as a patio, bar, or party room. You'll also see an option to share whether you provide delivery.
Step 3: Keep Your Google Business Profile Up-To-Date
The GBP information will show up on Google Maps, Google Knowledge Graph, and other search results, so ensure it stays up-to-date.
Check your listing on a frequent basis to answer customer questions, respond to reviews, and update information, especially if your business hours have changed amid COVID-19. Keeping your listing updated will ensure that prospective customers get accurate information. Plus, responding to reviews shows you care about your customers' experience. Positive, grateful responses can lead to a dedicated customer base.
Need Help?
Claiming a Google Business Profile listing is part of Menufy's free services alongside online ordering. If your restaurant needs help managing your listing, schedule a free consultation with a Menufy Marketing Specialist, or contact us at (913) 305-5552 or performance@menufy.com.
Final Thoughts
Google Business Profile, formally known as Google My Business, helps customers find your restaurant and locate information about your store, including hours, reviews, and your website. As a restaurant owner, claiming your Google Business listing is the easiest—and most critical—step to improving your local SEO ranking.