If you’ve been hearing whispers of a mythical platform called Google Business Profile and are dreading the idea of maintaining yet another platform, take a deep breath. Google Business Profile is simply the newest version of Google My Business. When used correctly, it can help you stay at the top of search engine results and make the most of your veterinary marketing efforts. 

First Things First: What Is Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is an online listing provided by Google for businesses, organizations, and other entities. For a user searching for a product or service, it’s the box that appears on the search results page with all the good and useful information right in one place. 

From an end user’s perspective, this profile has all pertinent information without the need to go to a website. They can easily access directions via Google maps, read reviews, initiate a phone call, see photos from clients, and more without ever leaving the SERP (search engine results page). Additionally, it allows businesses to showcase important information about themselves including hours of operation, contact information, social media profiles, special offers, events and more. 

Overall, a Google Business Profile is an essential veterinary marketing tool for businesses to establish a strong online presence, connect with customers, and drive more foot traffic or online traffic to their physical or virtual storefronts.

Google Business Profiles for Veterinarians

We get it. As a veterinarian, your specialty is animal care, so why do you need to focus so much on a Google Business Profile? Well, there are many reasons that this feature is vital for your business. They include:

Local Visibility: Many pet owners search for local veterinarians when their pets need medical attention or routine care. Having a Google Business Profile increases the likelihood of your veterinary clinic appearing in local search results when potential clients search for veterinary services in your area.

Contact Information: Pet owners need to find and contact veterinary clinics easily. Your Google Business Profile provides essential contact information, including your clinic’s name, address, phone number, and website to make it convenient for pet owners to reach out to you and schedule appointments.

Operating Hours: A Google Business Profile allows you to specify your veterinary clinic’s operating hours, which helps pet owners know when they can bring their animals in for consultations, emergencies, or follow-up visits. This also minimizes the chances of them visiting when your clinic is closed (and getting frustrated).

Services Offered: Your Google Business Profile enables you to showcase the various services you offer as a veterinarian, such as wellness exams, vaccinations, surgical procedures, dental care, and emergency services. This helps pet owners understand the breadth of your expertise and determine if your clinic meets their specific needs.

Customer Reviews: Pet owners highly value the opinions of other pet owners when choosing a veterinarian. Your Google Business Profile allows clients to leave reviews and ratings about their experiences with your clinic. Positive reviews can establish trust, demonstrate the quality of your services, and attract new clients.

How to Effectively Utilize Google Business Profile

Unfortunately, the simple act of creating a Google Business Profile is not necessarily enough to reap all its benefits. If you want to make the most out of this feature, you should:

• Add Engaging Visuals: Upload high-quality photos of your veterinary clinic, the staff, and the facilities. Include images that highlight the friendly and caring environment, and any special features or services you offer. 
• Encourage and Respond to Reviews: Encourage your clients to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile. Positive reviews can boost your reputation and attract new clients. Respond promptly and professionally to positive and negative reviews to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Post Regular Updates: Utilize the Posts feature on your Google Business Profile to share news, promotions, special offers, upcoming events, or any other relevant information. 
• Monitor Insights and Analytics: Utilize the insights and analytics Google Business Profiles provides to understand how customers find and interact with your profile. Track metrics such as profile views, search queries, and customer actions. This data can help you make informed decisions and identify areas for improvement.

Whether you need help building and maintaining a Google Business Profile or want to completely revamp your veterinary website, Beyond Indigo Pets is here for you. Fill out this form or give us a call at (877) 244-9322 to get started!