For tradespeople like plumbers, electricians, HVAC professionals, and contractors, a Google Business Profile (GBP) can be a game-changer. When customers need your services, they’re likely searching for “emergency plumber near me” or “HVAC repair in [city]”—and your GBP is often the first thing they’ll see.
However, many tradespeople overlook key aspects of their profiles, leading to missed opportunities and lost jobs. Here are five common mistakes made by those in the trades—and how to fix them to grow your business.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Business Information
Having the wrong phone number or not listing your service hours could cost you customers. Many tradespeople also fail to list all the services they provide, leaving potential clients in the dark.
Why It Matters:
- Customers often need urgent services and rely on accurate information to make a quick decision.
- Google rewards businesses with complete profiles by giving them better visibility in search results.
How to Fix It:
- Make sure your business name, phone number, and address (NAP) are correct and consistent across all platforms.
- Include all the services you offer, from “leak detection” to “furnace installation,” so customers can find you for any job.
- Specify your hours, especially if you offer emergency services. Highlight 24/7 availability if applicable.
2. Ignoring Customer Reviews
For trades like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, trust is critical. Customers rely heavily on reviews to choose a service provider, especially when they’ve never worked with you before. Neglecting reviews—or failing to respond—can damage your reputation.
Why It Matters:
- Positive reviews help build trust and credibility, especially for tradespeople entering customers’ homes.
- Negative reviews that go unanswered can leave a bad impression.
How to Fix It:
- Ask satisfied customers to leave a review after completing a job.
- Respond to all reviews. Thank customers for positive feedback and address concerns in negative reviews professionally.
- Highlight top reviews in your GBP posts to showcase your expertise and customer satisfaction.
3. Failing to Post Regular Updates
Many tradespeople set up their Google Business Profile and then forget about it. Without regular updates, your profile can look inactive, and potential customers may move on to a competitor.
Why It Matters:
- Active profiles are more likely to rank higher in local searches.
- Updates keep your business top-of-mind for recurring or seasonal services, like HVAC maintenance or roof inspections.
How to Fix It:
- Post photos of your completed jobs to show off your craftsmanship, whether it’s a new HVAC installation or a remodeled bathroom.
- Share seasonal tips, such as “How to Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing for Winter.”
- Use the “Offers” feature to promote discounts on specific services, like water heater repairs or electrical panel upgrades.
4. Not Targeting the Right Keywords
If your profile isn’t optimized with the terms your customers are searching for, you could be losing out on valuable leads. Many tradespeople fail to include the right keywords in their profiles.
Why It Matters:
- Customers often search using phrases like “emergency electrician” or “HVAC repair near me.”
- Without the right keywords, your profile may not appear in local search results.
How to Fix It:
- Use location-specific keywords in your business description, such as “Plumbing services in [City, State].”
- Highlight key services in your profile, like “Air Conditioner Installation,” “Electrical Wiring,” or “Bathroom Renovations.”
- Incorporate FAQs like “Do you offer 24/7 service?” to match customer queries.
5. Overlooking GBP Insights
Many tradespeople don’t realize how much valuable data is available in the Google Business Profile dashboard. Ignoring this data means you’re missing out on insights that could improve your profile’s performance.
Why It Matters:
- Insights show how customers find your profile, whether through search or Maps.
- Knowing what works (and what doesn’t) helps you refine your strategy and attract more clients.
How to Fix It:
- Regularly review the “Insights” section in your GBP dashboard.
- Track how customers find you, what actions they take (calls, direction requests), and which photos or posts generate the most engagement.
- Adjust your content to focus on the services or promotions that get the most attention.
Conclusion
For plumbers, electricians, HVAC professionals, and construction contractors, a Google Business Profile is more than just an online listing—it’s a powerful tool for attracting new customers and growing your business. By avoiding these common mistakes and implementing the fixes above, you can ensure your profile stands out when it matters most.
Managing your Google Business Profile doesn’t have to be another item on your already-busy to-do list. At GBP Rocket, we specialize in optimizing and maintaining profiles for trades like yours. Let us handle the tech side so you can focus on providing exceptional service.
Ready to get more calls and leads? Contact GBP Rocket today and let’s get your business in front of more customers!