GBP : The Free Tool Every Brisbane Service Business Should Be Using
There’s a free tool that can help your business show up in Google, get more calls, and build trust without spending a cent.
And no, it’s not a scam or just another subscription you’ll forget about after the free trial. 🙃
It’s called Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business), and if you’re a local tradie or service provider, you need to be using it.
Let’s break down what it is, why it’s powerful, and how you can get the most out of it.
What Is Google Business Profile (GBP)?
Your Google Business Profile is the listing that appears when someone Googles your business name or searches for services like yours in their area. It shows up in the map results when people search for things like “plumber near me.”
It also displays a business info box with your name, reviews, hours, and photos, plus handy mobile buttons like “Call,” “Visit Website,” and “Get Directions.”
If you’ve ever Googled a business and seen that neat little box on the right-hand side or at the top of map results, that’s a Google Business Profile in action. It acts like a digital shopfront that works even when you’re off the tools. And in today’s competitive online world, having this visibility could mean the difference between getting the job or being missed entirely.
Why It Matters for Local Service Businesses
Let’s say someone’s tap bursts at 9pm in North Lakes. They don’t have a regular plumber. They grab their phone and Google: “emergency plumber North Lakes.”
If your GBP is set up and optimised, you could show up in that top 3-pack of map results, even before paid ads or websites.
This leads to more visibility for your business, more phone calls from potential customers, greater trust in your services, and more jobs — all without paying for ads.
Still not convinced? Here’s what it’s doing behind the scenes.
4 Reasons GBP Is a Game-Changer
1. It Gets You Found in Local Searches
Google prioritises local businesses when people search for services nearby, especially on mobile phones. Whether someone’s looking for an emergency plumber or a local hairdresser, a well-optimised Google Business Profile helps you appear in the top map results. This means you’re visible when it matters most — when a customer is ready to act. It’s one of the easiest ways to put your business in front of people who need you right now.
2. It Builds Instant Trust
When someone sees a complete and active Google Business Profile, they feel reassured that your business is legitimate and reliable. Seeing positive reviews, your trading hours, photos of your work, and even a friendly reply to a customer builds confidence. It creates a digital first impression before they even speak to you. And in competitive local industries, that trust is what sets you apart.
3. It’s a Call Magnet
Your GBP makes it easy for potential clients to get in touch straight away. With a clear “Call Now” button on mobile, people don’t have to search through your website or social pages for your number. One tap and they’re on the phone with you. It removes all friction and turns browsers into bookings quickly.
4. It’s 100% Free
There’s no catch — setting up and using a Google Business Profile is completely free. While SEO campaigns and ads can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, GBP is a no-cost marketing asset that keeps working for you. All it takes is some time upfront to set up, and occasional updates to keep it fresh. For small businesses and tradies, it’s the smartest first step into digital marketing.
How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile
If you’ve already got a GBP — awesome. But many tradies set it up once and forget about it. Don’t be that guy.
Here’s how to get the most out of it:
1. Fill Out Everything
Include your full address, phone number, business hours, service areas, and all services offered. The more complete your profile is, the more Google trusts it — and that means better chances of appearing in local searches. It also shows potential customers that you’re organised, professional, and ready for business.
2. Add Photos Regularly
Real photos build credibility and connection. Whether it’s your team, tools, job sites, or behind-the-scenes moments, regular photo updates show you’re active and trustworthy. Plus, listings with photos tend to get more clicks and engagement.
3. Get Reviews (And Reply to Them)
Reviews are one of the biggest trust signals for local businesses. Ask your satisfied customers to leave a quick review, and take a moment to reply to each one. It shows you’re engaged, professional, and that you genuinely care about your clients’ experiences.
4. Use Keywords in Your Description
Add location-based and service-specific keywords naturally in your business description. Think “emergency plumber in North Brisbane” or “licensed electrician Mango Hill.” This helps your profile show up in the exact searches your ideal customers are making.
5. Post Weekly Updates
GBP allows you to post updates like you would on social media — use it! Share completed projects, promotions, tips, or even team highlights. Regular posts signal to Google that your business is active and relevant, and give potential customers a reason to choose you.
What If You Don’t Have a GBP Yet?
No worries — it’s easy (and we can help).
To get started, you’ll need a Google account. If you already have a Gmail address, you’re good to go.
Next, make sure your business has a physical location or defined service area. Even if you don’t work out of an office, you can still list the suburbs or regions you serve.
Then, head over to google.com/business and follow the setup prompts. The process is straightforward and usually takes just a few minutes.
Once submitted, Google will send a verification postcard or give you a quick call to confirm your business details. After that, your profile goes live – and starts working for you 24/7, even while you’re on the job.
Final Thoughts: If You Only Do One Thing for Local SEO… Do This.
Don’t have time for a full SEO campaign yet? That’s okay.
But if you want more local calls, more leads, and more trust — without spending a dollar — your Google Business Profile is the best place to start.
At Gold Edge Digital, we help Brisbane tradies and service businesses show up, stand out, and grow online.
Want Us to Set Up or Optimise Your GBP?
We offer a done-for-you setup and SEO booster to get your profile ranking where it should be — at the top.
📞 Book your free call now [https://dev.goldedgedigital.com/contact/]
🌐 [www.goldedgedigital.com] Let’s get you found.
