As a freelance beauty professional, creating a strong online presence is key to getting found by new clients and building credibility. A Google My Business (GMB) profile is one of the most effective tools to make this happen. With GMB, your business becomes easily discoverable on Google Search and Maps, allowing clients to locate you quickly while showcasing your services and hours. This is also how to get Google reviews!
In this quick guide, we’ll show you how to set up your GMB profile to increase your visibility and get reviews, plus share tips to help you stand out in search results.
Why Google My Business Matters for Small Businesses
Whether you offer mobile services or operate out of a studio, your clients need a way to find and trust you. Here’s why GMB is essential for your business:
- Boost Local Visibility: This is one of the most valuable marketing assets you have. Most beauty service searches happen on Google, often paired with “near me”, such as “manicure near me.” A GMB profile puts you on the map—literally!
- Build Credibility: Positive reviews on GMB enhance your reputation and encourage new clients to book.
- Showcase Your Services: GMB allows you to list your offerings, add any details, and share photos of your work.
Steps to Setting Up Your Google My Business Profile
- Sign In or Create a Google Account
You’ll need a Google account to get started. If you don’t already have one for your business, create one to keep personal and professional activities separate.
- Visit the GMB Website
Go to Google My Business and click “Manage Now.”
- Enter Your Business Details
Fill in your business name, category (e.g., Beauty Salon, Mobile Beauty Services), and location.
If you don’t have a website yet, you can substitute the requested link for your social media profile.
- Verify Your Business
Google will send a postcard with a verification code to the address you provided. Once you receive it (usually within 5–7 business days), enter the code in your GMB dashboard to verify your profile.
- Optimize Your Profile
- Add Photos: Showcase your workspace, tools, and client results (with permission).
- List Services: Include all your offerings, such as facials, waxing, or lash extensions, along with brief descriptions.
- Set Business Hours: Keep them accurate and up-to-date to avoid client frustration.
- Write a Short Description: Highlight what sets you apart, such as experience, certifications, or unique techniques.
- Update Regularly
Post updates, promotions, or announcements to keep your profile fresh and engaging. Clients love seeing what’s new!
How to Encourage Google Reviews
Positive reviews can make or break your online presence. They not only build trust but also improve your ranking in search results. Here’s how to encourage them:
Ask Happy Clients Directly: At the end of an appointment, kindly ask satisfied clients if they’d be willing to leave a review. Let them know how much it helps your business.
Make It Easy: Send a follow-up message with a direct link to your GMB review page. You can create this link in your GMB dashboard under the “Ask for Reviews” section.
Offer a Small Incentive: Consider running a promotion like “Leave a review and enter to win a service”. Or “Get $5 off your next appointment.”
Respond to All Reviews: Thank clients for their feedback, whether it’s glowing, constructive, or negative. This shows you care and helps build rapport with potential clients browsing your profile. Think about how you browse businesses on Google—do you read reviews and responses? Of course you do!
Responding to reviews is not only an opportunity to impart a good feeling on those who left them, but also captures the attention of others browsing, helping to strengthen your brand image.
Showcase Reviews: Share your best reviews on social media or your website to amplify their impact. This not only boosts visibility but also encourages others to leave their own testimonials.
Why Online Booking Matters for Business Owners
An online booking option is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity for growing and maintaining a competitive beauty business. Here’s why it matters:
- 24/7 Availability: Online booking allows clients to schedule appointments at any time, even outside business hours. This reduces missed opportunities and caters to clients who prefer the flexibility of booking at their convenience.
- Improved Efficiency: By automating appointment scheduling, online booking systems reduce the time spent on phone calls and manual bookings. This frees up valuable time to focus on providing actual beauty services.
- Fewer No-Shows: Many online booking platforms allow clients to receive automated appointment reminders via email or text. This feature reduces no-shows and last-minute cancellations, which can directly impact revenue.
- Enhanced Client Experience: Clients value the simplicity of being able to view available time slots, choose their preferred services, and book without delays. Efficiency in online booking is essential because today’s clients value convenience and speed. Many Millennials and Gen Z customers will abandon the process if faced with barriers such as needing to call or message, preferring the simplicity of seeing availability and booking instantly online.
- Better Organization: Online systems often include features such as calendar integrations, waitlists, and analytics. These tools help businesses stay organized, track appointment trends, and optimize schedules.
Affordable Online Booking Options for Small Businesses
For beauty professionals looking for cost-effective solutions, there are several low-cost online booking platforms available, such as squareup.com . Many of these offer online booking, automated reminders, and integration with Square’s payment system. It is user-friendly and ideal for small businesses.
Setting up your Google My Business profile is an important step in helping your beauty business thrive. You can do this without a website, but adding a simple, free, or low-cost online booking option can significantly boost actual bookings as your visibility and discoverability on Google increase.
This not only enhances trust but also helps you stand out in a competitive market.
Let us know what you think in the comments!
As with any professional beauty service, it is important to consult your provincial authorities to ensure you meet all regulatory requirements for offering services professionally.
Read More: 4 Ways Getting A Business Number Will Benefit You