Google My Business Tips Most Business Owners Ignore

Most Business Owners Set Up Google My Business and Think They’re Done

Creating a Google My Business (GMB) profile is a great first step—but stopping there is like opening a store and never turning the sign to open.

Most business owners don’t realize that GMB is more than a business directory listing. When used properly, it becomes a free digital marketing powerhouse that boosts visibility, attracts leads, and increases sales. Yet the majority never tap into its true potential.

In this post, we’ll show you the most powerful GMB features that owners overlook—and how to use them to get ahead of your competitors.

1. Turn Your GMB Into a Mini-Advertising Platform

Many businesses fill out their basic info—address, hours, and phone—and stop there. But GMB allows you to post content directly on your business listing.

Use Posts To:

• Announce special promotions
• Launch new products or services
• Promote upcoming events
• Share important business updates

These posts appear within your listing on Google Search and Maps, catching the eye of potential customers while they’re already searching for your services.

Pro Tip: Add a call-to-action and expiration date to increase urgency and clicks.

2. Enable Real-Time Messaging (and Set Auto-Responses)

Did you know GMB has a built-in messaging feature that lets customers contact you instantly?

Most businesses leave this disabled—missing out on real-time opportunities to:

Answer pre-purchase questions

• Book appointments
• Share estimates or quotes
• Turn curious visitors into paying customers

You can also automate responses to frequently asked questions, saving time while maintaining engagement.

Pro Tip: Set expectations in your auto-reply like “We’ll get back to you within 10 minutes.”

3. Use Insights to Track What’s Actually Working

Google My Business includes a powerful (yet underused) Insights tab.

This shows:

• What search queries people use to find you
• How many calls, website visits, and directions came from your profile
• Which photos attract the most views
• How your visibility compares over time

By monitoring this data, you can refine your marketing strategies, improve your profile, and double down on what brings the most engagement.

 Pro Tip: Use search terms from Insights to improve your website SEO and advertising keywords.

4. Compare Yourself to Local Competitors

One hidden gem inside GMB is the comparison to similar businesses in your area.

You’ll get data on:

• How often you show up in search vs. others
• Who’s getting more clicks or calls
• Emerging market trends in your industry

Instead of guessing how you’re performing, this feature gives you a benchmark for success.

Pro Tip: Use competitor insights to refine your offers and out-position them with better images, reviews, and CTAs.

Businesses Who Use These Features Don’t Just Survive—They Grow

At Budget Digital Solutions, we’ve seen it firsthand: businesses that actively use GMB’s advanced tools enjoy:

• Higher rankings in Google Maps and local search
• More direct traffic to their website and phone
• Stronger customer trust thanks to up-to-date listings and fast communication

Meanwhile, those who leave their profile untouched struggle to understand why their competitors are winning online.

Final Thoughts: Google My Business is a Free Growth Engine—If You Know How To Use It

If you treat GMB like a set-it-and-forget-it task, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful (and free) tools available to local businesses today.

Want help turning your GMB into a lead-generating machine?

👉 Contact Budget Digital Solutions and let our experts optimize your profile for visibility, conversion, and long-term growth.