Using Google Business to win more work

If you only do one piece of marketing for your trade business, it should be setting up and using a Google Business Profile. It’s free, it works, and it’s often the first thing homeowners see when they search for a local tradesperson.

A Google Business Profile is the box that appears on Google with your business name, reviews, photos, phone number, and location. When someone searches for things like “builder near me” or “electrician in Exeter”, these listings usually appear before normal website results.

Why Google Business Profile is so powerful for trades

It puts you in front of people who are actively looking. Homeowners searching on Google already have intent — they’re not browsing, they’re looking for someone to contact.

It builds trust instantly. Reviews, photos, and clear contact details help homeowners feel confident before they even visit your website.

It works even if your website isn’t great. Many people will call or message you directly from your Google listing without ever clicking through.

It’s completely free. You don’t pay Google to appear — you just need to set it up properly.

How to set up a Google Business Profile

Getting started is straightforward and only takes a short amount of time.

• Go to Google and search for “Google Business Profile”

• Sign in with a Google account

• Enter your business name and trade

• Choose the areas you cover

• Add your phone number and website (if you have one)

• Verify your business (usually by postcard or phone)

Once verified, your business can start appearing in local search results.

How to improve your chances of showing up near the top

Google doesn’t rank businesses randomly. A few simple actions make a big difference.

Complete every section of your profile. Businesses with full details tend to rank better and look more trustworthy.

Add photos regularly. Real photos of your work, van, team, or finished jobs help both rankings and conversions.

Collect genuine reviews. Reviews are one of the biggest ranking factors. More reviews — and regular new ones — help you stand out.

Respond to reviews. Even a short “Thanks for the feedback” shows activity and professionalism.

Choose the right categories. Make sure your main trade is selected correctly and add relevant secondary categories where appropriate.

What type of photos should you upload?

You don’t need professional photography. Clear, honest images work best.

• Finished jobs

• Before-and-after shots

• Your van or signage

• You or your team on site

These reassure homeowners that you’re real, local, and active.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using different business names across Google, your website, and directories. Consistency matters.

Setting it up once and forgetting about it. Regular updates help.

Asking for reviews all at once. A steady trickle looks more natural and performs better.

In summary

Google Business Profile is one of the easiest and most effective marketing tools available to tradespeople. It helps homeowners find you, trust you, and contact you — often without ever visiting your website. With a bit of setup and occasional attention, it can become a steady source of enquiries at no cost.

Google Business Profile works best alongside strong social proof — how to get more Google reviews explains this.

It also supports enquiries generated by letters, which is covered in why introduction letters work .