Answer
Do I need a Google Business Profile if I already have a Facebook page?
Yes. Your Google Business Profile is what shows up on Google Maps and in the map results at the top of a search like "painter near me" or "deck builder" plus a town name. A Facebook page doesn't put you there, and neither does a website on its own.
The profile is free. The work is in setting it up right and then keeping it current.
How Google decides who shows up
Google says local results are based mainly on three things: relevance (does your profile match what they searched), distance (how close you are to them), and prominence (how well known you are, which includes your reviews and your website). (Google Business Profile Help)
You can't change distance. You can change the other two.
Setting it up right
- Pick the right main category. It matters more than anything you write in the description. "Painter" and "Deck builder" are categories; "home improvement" is too broad.
- Use a service area if you work at customers' homes. You can hide your home address and list the towns and counties you cover instead.
- Link your website. The profile and the site should list the same business name, phone number and towns.
What "keeping it current" means
- Photos of recent jobs. Real before-and-after photos, added as you finish work. They show customers what you do, and they show Google the profile is active.
- Posts. A short post about a job you just finished. One thing I learned the hard way with a client's profile: Google rejected a post because the phone number was in the post text. Your number belongs in the profile, not the post.
- Replying to reviews. Every one, good or bad, in a sentence or two.
- Hours and services. Update them when they change, including holidays.
If you'd rather not keep up with it yourself, here's what I do on Google profiles and Facebook pages.
Getting reviews the right way
Ask real customers, in person, right after a job goes well; that's when people are happiest to do it. Don't pay or give discounts for reviews, and don't have family or employees write them. Google's rules don't allow either, and it removes reviews it flags. (Google review policy)
Common questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Google doesn't charge for the profile. You pay only if you hire someone to set it up or keep it current.
Can I hide my home address?
Yes. If you work at customers' homes, you can set it up as a service-area business and list the towns you cover instead of your address.
How often should I post?
Whenever you finish a job worth showing. For most trades, a few times a month keeps the profile looking active.
Can you manage it for me?
Yes. My $149/month plan covers your website and your Google profile: posts of your recent jobs, replies to your reviews, and current hours and services. The details are on the Facebook and Google page of this site.