Local SEO Illustration

Hobart’s small businesses thrive on local connections. Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) acts as your digital storefront, ensuring customers searching for your type of business can easily find you.

This guide is designed to help you not only set up your profile but also maintain it like a pro. Whether you’re a cosy café in North Hobart, a boutique in Salamanca, or a service provider across Greater Hobart, your Google Business Profile is your chance to make a lasting impression. Let’s turn it into a powerful asset for your business.

Why Your Google Business Profile is a Game-Changer

In today’s digital landscape, your Google Business Profile is often the first interaction potential customers have with your business. Here’s why it’s essential:

  • Local Visibility: Appear in Google Maps and local search results when customers search for products or services you offer.
  • Trust and Credibility: A verified profile signals professionalism and legitimacy.
  • Customer Engagement: Share updates, respond to reviews, and answer questions—all from one platform.

For Hobart businesses, where community connections and word-of-mouth recommendations are invaluable, a well-maintained profile can set you apart from the competition.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Profile for Maximum Impact

Before diving into maintenance, ensure your profile is set up correctly. A complete and accurate profile is the foundation of success.

Claim or Create Your Profile

  • Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all platforms.
  • Search for your business on Google. If it exists, click “Claim this business.” If not, create a new listing.

Verify Your Business

  • Choose postcard verification, or use email or phone verification if available. Verification unlocks essential features and builds trust.

Fill in Every Detail

  • Add your business category, hours, website, and service areas.
  • Write a compelling business description that highlights what makes your Hobart business unique.

Step 2: Maintaining Your Profile Like a Pro

A Google Business Profile is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing commitment. Here’s how to keep it fresh, engaging, and effective:

1. Keep Your Information Accurate
Outdated information frustrates customers and damages your credibility. Regularly review and update:

  • Business hours (especially during holidays or special events).
  • Contact details, including phone numbers and email addresses.
  • Services or products offered.

2. Showcase Your Business with Stunning Visuals
Photos are your chance to tell your story visually. Use them to:

  • Highlight your location with exterior and interior shots.
  • Showcase your products or services.
  • Introduce your team to add a personal touch.

  • Pro Tip: Incorporate Hobart’s unique charm—think kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the waterfront, or local events—to create a sense of place.

3. Leverage the Power of Reviews
Reviews are the modern-day word-of-mouth. They build trust and influence decisions.

  • Encourage Reviews: Politely ask satisfied customers to leave feedback.
  • Respond Thoughtfully: Thank positive reviewers and address negative feedback with professionalism and empathy.
  • Stay Authentic: Avoid fake reviews—they can harm your reputation and violate Google’s policies

4. Post Regular Updates
Keep your audience engaged with timely, relevant content:

  • Promote special offers, events, or new products.
  • Share seasonal updates (e.g., holiday hours or summer specials).
  • Tie your posts to local happenings, like Dark Mofo or the Taste of Tasmania, to connect with the Hobart community.

5. Use Insights to Refine Your Strategy
Google provides valuable analytics to help you understand your audience:

  • Search Queries: See what terms customers are using to find you.
  • Profile Views: Measure your visibility.
  • Customer Actions: Track calls, direction requests, and website visits.
  • Use this data to refine your approach and focus on what works.

6. Monitor Questions and Answers
Google allows users to ask questions directly on your profile. Stay proactive:

  • Answer promptly and accurately.
  • Provide detailed, helpful responses.
  • Regularly check for and correct any inappropriate or incorrect answers from others.

7. Optimise for Local SEO
Even your Google Business Profile benefits from SEO best practices:

  • Use relevant keywords in your business description (e.g., “Tasmanian roasted coffee” or “café near Salamanca”).
  • List all services and products.
  • Ensure consistency across your profile, website, and other online listings.

Pro Tips to Stay Ahead of the Competition

Schedule a Monthly Audit
Dedicate time each month to:

  • Update photos.
  • Review analytics.
  • Refresh your business description or services.

Promote Local Engagement
Highlight your involvement in the Hobart community—whether it’s sponsoring a local event, partnering with other businesses, or supporting a cause.

Experiment with Google’s Features

  • Use the Products/Services Section to showcase your top offerings.
  • Add Attributes like “wheelchair accessible” or “free parking” to make your profile more informative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring Negative Reviews: Silence can come across as dismissive. Address concerns with professionalism.

  • Using Stock Images: Authenticity matters. Use real photos that reflect your business.

  • Inconsistent Information: Mismatched details across platforms can confuse customers and harm your credibility.

Google My Business Illustration

The Benefits of a Well-Maintained Profile

  • Stronger Local Presence: Capture more Hobart-based searches.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Provide accurate information and answer queries upfront.
  • Increased Sales: Drive traffic to your website and through your doors.

Final Thoughts: Your Digital Handshake with Hobart

Your Google Business Profile is more than a listing—it’s your digital handshake with customers. It’s where first impressions are formed, trust is built, and relationships begin.

By investing time in maintaining and nurturing your profile, you’re not just boosting your online presence—you’re fostering a deeper connection with the Hobart community. Share your story, showcase your Tasmanian roots, and let your business shine.

The effort you put in today will pay dividends in customer loyalty and long-term success. So, take the first step—or the next one—and make your Google Business Profile a true reflection of your business’s excellence.

Hobart is waiting to discover you. Are you ready to be found?

83%
Local connections drive customer loyalty

83% of Australians prefer businesses with a strong local presence, making a well-maintained Google Business Profile essential for standing out in your community.

Local SEO statistics & trends
  • 46% of all Google searches seek local information, making local SEO critical for businesses.
  • 72% of consumers who perform a local search visit a store within 8 kilometres.
  • Businesses with complete Google Business Profiles are 2.7 times more likely to be considered reputable.
  • 61% of mobile searchers are more likely to contact a local business if they have a Google Business Profile.