Googling things is practically a human instinct now.
Googling things is practically a human instinct now. Whether someone needs a dentist, a therapist, or a foot specialist for that mystery pain they’ve been ignoring for weeks, they’ll most likely start with a Google search. That’s where your Google Business Profile steps in—like the superhero of local discovery. But here’s the twist: if it’s not properly set up and maintained, it’s about as useful as a cardboard stethoscope. So let’s make yours shine like a freshly sterilized surgical tool.
Start with the Basics, but Don’t Be Boring
Fill in every section. Yes, every single one. Business name, category, address, hours, phone number—Google loves that stuff. But don’t stop there. Add a solid business description that’s informative but still has personality. If you’re a podiatrist who loves fixing feet and making people laugh, say it. Show potential patients what makes you unique and why they should trust you over the generic clinic down the street.
Get Snappy
People are nosy. We want to see where we’re going before we get there. Add high-quality photos of your clinic, team, waiting room, coffee machine (if it’s fancy), or anything else that gives people a glimpse into your world. Regularly updated visuals keep your profile looking active, friendly, and real.
No one wants to walk into a place that looks like it hasn’t been updated since the dial-up era. If your last photo was from 2019, you’re due.
Reviews Are the Secret Sauce
Want to show off without sounding like a bragger? Let your patients do it for you. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews, and respond to them—even the cranky ones. A polite, thoughtful response to a bad review shows you care. Plus, Google loves engagement. Reviews build trust, boost visibility, and help people feel like they know you before they even walk in the door.
And let’s be real—everyone reads the reviews. Everyone.
Add Posts Like It’s Social Media (Because It Kind of Is)
Did you know you can post updates to your Google Business Profile like you would on social media? Yep. Events, news, blog articles, tips—drop them right in. These little posts give your profile extra life and show visitors that your business is active, engaged, and worth their time.
Treat it like your digital front window. New service? Post it. Special event? Post it. Just got new office plants? Okay, maybe skip that one unless they’re really impressive.
Q&A Isn’t Just for Quiz Shows
The Q&A section on your profile can be a powerful tool. Jump in and answer common questions before people even ask. This not only helps patients but also adds keyword-rich content to your profile. You can even post your own questions and answer them (yes, it’s allowed and yes, it’s smart).
Think about the top five questions new patients ask you and add them. It’s basically giving Google a cheat sheet on what your business does.
Keep Everything Updated Like It’s Your Pet
Business hours, contact info, holiday schedules—all of it needs to stay current. Nothing says “we don’t care” like outdated hours or a disconnected phone number. Regular updates keep your profile fresh and make sure potential patients don’t show up on a Sunday only to find locked doors and a dark waiting room.
Get Help from the Experts
Let’s be real—not every healthcare professional has time to optimize a Google profile in between patient charts, insurance paperwork, and, you know, saving lives. That’s where a healthcare marketing agency can make a big difference. They handle the optimization, tracking, and strategy so you can focus on doing what you do best—taking care of people.
For example, take this healthcare marketing agency that specializes in making sure your digital presence actually works. No fluff, just results.
Feeling like your Google Business Profile needs a serious boost?
At Signify Digital, we’re the healthcare marketing agency that takes the guesswork out of online visibility. From profiles to pixels, we help clinics and practices get seen and chosen. Let’s work together to make your business the one patients find—and love—on their next search.
