When people in Minnesota need a service, they turn to Google Search. Your business profile is often the first thing they see. If it looks empty or outdated, it hurts your chances of being chosen. Google Posts give local business owners a way to stand out in that difficult moment.
You can share offers, updates, or news that speak directly to local customers. These posts appear on your business profile and in search results. They show you are active and open for business. That can lead to more clicks, more calls, and more visits.
It only takes a few minutes each week to post something relevant. A short update can go a long way. At Matter Solutions, we help businesses get more value from simple tools like this. Google Posts help you stay visible and build trust.
What Are Google Posts?
Google Posts are short updates added directly to your Google Business Profile. These posts appear in search results, Google Maps, and on your profile page. They help promote your business at the exact moment people are looking for services like yours.
Unlike social media, Google Posts are part of your business profile. That means they’re visible during relevant searches from people in your area. This is key for showing up in local search results.
You can use them to:
- Share announcements or promotions
- Highlight events or seasonal offers
- Add limited-time discounts or bundles
- Promote services or product features
- Post photos or videos of your business
Each post supports your visibility and encourages more engagement. You get to speak directly to your local audience without needing ads.
Google Posts can also improve the appearance of your business profile. A well-maintained profile with current posts builds trust and shows that your company is active. It helps your listing appear in more relevant searches and increases your reach.
If you post once a week, you give customers a reason to click, visit, or call. These updates are simple, direct, and powerful for local business owners.
Why Local Businesses in Minnesota Should Care
Local businesses in Minnesota face significant competition. Standing out in local search results is crucial. Notably, 46% of all Google searches are seeking local information. This represents the importance of a strong online presence.
Google Posts offers a cost-effective way to engage with your local community. When you update your Google Business Profile with promotions, events, or news, it helps keep your business relevant in local searches. This approach not only brings in new customers but also builds loyalty with the ones you already have.
For instance, a Minneapolis café began posting weekly specials and events on their Google Business Profile. Within months, they noticed a significant increase in foot traffic and customer engagement. This example shows the potential impact of effectively utilizing Google Posts.
So, incorporating Google Posts into your digital marketing plan is a strategic move. It enhances your visibility, keeps your audience informed, and positions your business as active and engaged in the local community.
Producing Posts That Get Clicked
Google Posts can effectively connect with your local audience. But to get real results, your posts need to be clear, useful, and timely. Every word should serve a purpose. Keep your message focused on what your customers care about.
Use Real Photos That Reflect Your Business
Add photos that show your store, team, or products. These feel more real than stock images. When you upload photos that match your services, it builds trust. Local customers want to see the real business before they visit.
Focus on One Clear Message
Each post should cover one idea. You can promote a new product, offer a discount, or update store hours. Simple posts get more clicks and improve engagement. A clear message helps your business show up in local search results.
Add a Direct Call to Action
Let people know what to do. Use clear instructions like “Call today,” “Visit us,” or “Order now.” Include your phone number if that helps. Your call to action should match your goal and feel easy to follow.
Mention Local Events and Trends
Talk about nearby festivals, school holidays, or seasonal offers. This helps your content feel fresh and relevant. Local events give people more reasons to visit and share your post.
Stay Consistent and Post Weekly
Post updates once a week. This keeps your Google Business Profile active. It also signals to Google that your business is current and serving local customers. That helps you show up in more relevant searches.
Write How You Speak to Customers
Match your tone to your brand. A café might sound friendly. Furthermore, a medical clinic might sound calm and professional. Use natural language that fits your business.
Pro Tip:
Use content from your email marketing or website if needed. Reposting saves time and keeps your digital marketing consistent.
Smart Integration: Google Posts and Your Marketing Plan
Integrating Google Posts into your broader marketing strategy can significantly enhance your business’s online presence. By aligning these posts with existing initiatives, you create a cohesive and engaging experience for your audience.
Link to Your Website
Use Google Posts to drive traffic to specific pages on your website. Highlight a new service, share a recent blog post, and always include a clear call to action that directs users to learn more.
This approach increases site visits and supports your SEO by signaling active engagement.
Synchronize with Email Marketing
Reinforce your messaging by aligning Google Posts with your email campaigns. For example, if you’re promoting a seasonal offer via email, create a corresponding Google Post.
This consistency ensures that your audience receives a unified message across multiple channels.
Complement Online Advertising
Integrate Google Posts with your online advertising efforts, such as Google Ads. A well-timed post can support a local ad campaign, making your business appear more active and trustworthy.
Customers often check your Google Business Profile before engaging with an ad; seeing recent posts can enhance credibility.
Repurpose Content Across Platforms
Efficiently manage your content by repurposing material from social media or blog posts into Google Posts.
This strategy maintains a consistent brand voice and maximizes the reach of your content without requiring additional resources.
Utilize Local Search Trends
Understanding local search behavior is crucial. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, conducting market research helps you understand your customers’ needs, identify potential customers, and reduce business risks.
Customizing your Google Posts to reflect local interests and search trends boosts your chances of showing up in relevant searches.
At Matter Solutions, we believe in a well-rounded approach to digital marketing. Adding Google Posts into your overall strategy helps you promote your services effectively while creating a seamless, engaging experience for your audience.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even good businesses can make small mistakes when using Google Posts. These mistakes are easy to fix. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:
- No new posts: Not posting often makes your profile feel out of date. Aim to post once a week.
- Broken links: Always test your links before you publish. A bad link can turn local customers away.
- Too much promotion: It’s fine to promote your services, but not every post should sell something. Try sharing helpful tips or updates too.
- No local touch: A post should feel like it’s made for your area. Mention a nearby event or something local customers care about.
- No photo or image: Every post should include a picture. This makes it easier to notice and more likely to get clicks.
- Too many words: Keep your post short and simple. Focus on one message at a time.
Fixing these problems helps improve engagement and makes your Google business profile stand out.
Your business will look more active in local search results. That means more clicks, more interest, and better results from each post.
Make It a Habit and Watch What Happens
Google Posts work best when you use them often. They keep your Google Business Profile fresh and active. That helps you show up more in local search results. It also shows customers that your business is real, open, and ready to help.
You don’t need fancy tools or a lot of time. Just post once a week. Share a quick update, promote a new offer, or highlight one of your services. The target is to stay present and consistent.
When you make Google Posts part of your routine, they start to build results. Customers notice. Search engines notice too. Your business becomes easier to find and trust.
A small habit can create a big impact. Start posting, and you’ll see the difference.
