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Mastering Google My Business for Your Hawaii Business

December 15, 2023
Digital Marketing, Local SEO
3 min read

For any business owner in Hawaii looking to attract more customers, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of your most powerful free tools. With so many people searching online for local products, services, and experiences – from Kama’aina to visitors – a well-managed GBP listing can significantly increase your visibility, foot traffic, and customer calls.

This guide will help you set up and optimize your Google Business Profile effectively, ensuring your business shines in Hawaii’s unique and competitive market.

Setting Up Your Google Business Profile

First things first, you need to claim or create your profile.

  1. Go to google.com/business and sign in with your Google account.
  2. Enter your business name. If it already exists, you can claim it. If not, you’ll create a new one.
  3. Accurately enter your business category, address (crucial for local search and map visibility), and service area if you serve customers at their locations (e.g., deliveries or services across Maui).
  4. Add your phone number and website.

Ensure every piece of information is accurate and matches what’s on your website and other online listings. This consistency is key.

Optimizing Your Business Profile for Hawaii

Once set up, optimizing your profile is an ongoing process. Here’s what to focus on:

  • Complete Every Section: Don’t skip anything. The more complete your profile, the better.
  • Business Description: Write a compelling description of your business. Naturally include keywords that potential customers in Hawaii might use (e.g., “locally sourced ingredients Makawao,” “handmade Hawaiian gifts,” “best surf lessons Paia”). Highlight what makes your business unique in the islands.
  • High-Quality Photos & Videos: Showcase the best of your business and the spirit of Aloha. Include:
    • Your storefront (especially important for Makawao’s charming upcountry appeal)
    • Your products or services in action
    • Your team
    • The ambiance of your location
    • Authentic images that reflect Hawaii’s beauty and your brand.
  • Services/Products: List your specific services or products directly on your profile. This helps customers quickly see what you offer.
  • Attributes: Select relevant attributes like “Locally owned,” “Woman-owned,” “Outdoor seating,” “Kama’aina discount,” “Wheelchair accessible,” etc. These help your profile appear in more specific searches.
  • Encourage Reviews: Politely ask satisfied customers to leave a Google review. Positive reviews heavily influence potential customers and improve your local search ranking.

Actively Use Google Posts

Think of Google Posts as mini-ads or updates directly on your GBP listing. Use them regularly to share:

  • Special Offers: “Aloha Friday Special!” or “10% off for Kama’aina this week.”
  • New Products/Services: “Fresh batch of mango bread!” or “Now offering guided hikes in Upcountry Maui.”
  • Events: “Live music this Saturday in Makawao!” or “Holiday shopping event.”
  • Business Updates: Changes in hours, new team members, etc.

Fresh content keeps your listing engaging and can positively impact your visibility.

Monitor Insights and Engage

Your GBP provides valuable insights into how customers are finding and interacting with your listing:

  • How Customers Search: See the search terms people used to find you.
  • Where Customers View Your Business: Whether they found you on Google Search or Google Maps.
  • Customer Actions: Track website clicks, direction requests, and phone calls originating from your profile.
  • Photo Views: See how your photos are performing.

Use this data to understand your customers better and refine your marketing efforts.

Beyond insights, actively engage:

  • Respond to All Reviews: Thank customers for positive reviews. Address negative reviews professionally and empathetically, showing you value feedback and are committed to customer service. This reflects well on your business’s Aloha spirit.
  • Answer Questions (Q&A): Monitor the “Questions & Answers” section. Answer questions promptly. You can also proactively add common questions and your answers to this section.
  • Enable Messaging: Allow customers to message you directly from your profile for quick inquiries. Respond promptly.

Keep Your NAP Updated

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone number. Ensure these core details are identical across your website, GBP, social media, and all online directories. Inconsistent information confuses customers and can hurt your search rankings. List your business in reputable local Hawaii directories too.

A well-optimized Google Business Profile is essential for success in Hawaii’s vibrant market. By setting up your profile correctly, filling it with engaging and accurate information specific to your Hawaiian business, actively using its features, and engaging with your customers, you will significantly improve your chances of attracting both locals and visitors.

Start implementing these best practices today, and watch your business connect with more customers across the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

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