Marketing Strategy

Why Google Is the Best Free Marketing Tool Your Local Business Isn't Using Properly (Yet)

Phil Carrick
October 2025
5 min read
Local SEO and Digital Marketing for Modern Marketplace Growth. Insights, Analytics, and Customer Reviews to Drive Store Performance and Online Presence.

You don't need another social media account to manage. You don't need to dance on TikTok. You just need to show up when people in your area are searching for what you do.

And the best part? Google already gives you a free tool to do exactly that — your Google Business Profile (GBP).

So why do most local businesses barely touch it?

1️⃣

You Already Have a "Mini Website" (You Just Haven't Claimed It Yet)

When someone types "salon near me" or "plumber in Belfast," what they see isn't your Facebook page or your website first — it's the map listings.

That's your Google Business Profile. It's basically a free billboard right where people are already looking to buy.

But most small businesses don't claim it… or if they do, they set it up once and forget about it. That's like buying a shop front and never turning the lights on.

2️⃣

Reviews = Modern Word of Mouth

Google reviews are one of the biggest ranking factors. But more importantly, they're how people decide whether to call you or the other guy.

A business with 30+ genuine reviews feels trustworthy — even if your prices are higher.

💬 Pro tip:

You don't have to awkwardly ask for reviews. With the right system (like the one I set up for clients), your customers get a friendly reminder automatically. No pressure. Just results.

3️⃣

Regular Updates Keep You at the Top

Google rewards activity. If you post weekly updates, add photos, or answer questions, you're telling Google:

"I'm active, I'm open, and I'm relevant."

That helps you stay above businesses who set up their profile once and left it to gather dust.

Think of it like your van or shopfront — if it looks fresh and busy, people notice.

4️⃣

It's the Easiest Way to Get Found Locally

Your Google Business Profile can appear in three places:

Google Search

Google Maps

Mobile "near me"

That means your next customer could find you without ever visiting your website. If you've set it up right, they'll call, message, or visit straight from your listing.

That's free marketing — working 24/7, even while you're on the tools or serving customers.

5️⃣

You Don't Need to Do It Alone

If you're too busy to manage it (and let's be honest, most people are), I can do it all for you.

I help tradespeople and local businesses:

  • ✅ Optimise their Google profiles properly
  • ✅ Get more 5⭐ reviews automatically
  • ✅ Post regular updates that attract customers
  • ✅ Track real growth every single month

It's simple, affordable, and you'll see your business climbing up the local results.

🚀

Ready to See What Google Can Really Do for You?

Let's make your business the one people find first — and choose every time.

5-Star Rated
50+ Happy Clients
Proven Results

Join local businesses across the UK who are already dominating their Google search results.