Why Your Newcastle Business Needs a Google Business Profile, Today.

You’ve poured your heart into your business. You have the best coffee in Jesmond, the most reliable plumbing service in Gateshead, or the most unique gifts in the Grainger Market. But when a potential customer searches on Google for "coffee near me" or "plumber in Newcastle," does your business show up?

If the answer is "I don't know" or a frustrated "no," then this is the most important article you'll read this year. There is a free, powerful tool waiting to send customers directly to your door, and it's called a Google Business Profile.

What Exactly is a Google Business Profile?

You’ve definitely seen them. It’s that box that appears at the top of a Google search or on Google Maps, showing a business's name, opening hours, photos, reviews, and location.

It’s not a website. It’s a free listing that acts as a digital snapshot of your business directly on the world's largest search engine.

5 Reasons This is a Game-Changer for Your Local Business

Setting up your profile is one of the highest-impact marketing activities you can do, and it's completely free. Here's why you need to claim yours today:

1. You Get Found on Google Maps: For a local business, this is everything. When someone is walking through the city centre and searches for "lunch spots," it’s the businesses with optimised Google profiles that will pop up around them.

2. It Builds Instant Trust: A complete profile with photos, positive reviews, and up-to-date opening hours tells customers you are a legitimate, active, and trustworthy business. It’s like having a well-lit, professional shop window online.

3. Customers Can Contact You Instantly: Your profile includes a "Call" button, a "Website" link, and even a "Directions" button. It removes all friction between a customer finding you and contacting you.

4. Reviews are Your Best Salesperson: The star ratings on your profile are a powerful form of social proof. Encouraging happy customers to leave reviews is one of the best ways to convince new customers to choose you over a competitor.

5. It's Free Advertising on Google: A well-managed profile can put your business in front of thousands of potential local customers every month without you spending a single penny on ads. It is, without a doubt, the best free marketing tool available today.

How to Get Started in 15 Minutes

1. Go to google.com/business and click "Manage now."

2. Sign in with a Google account and enter your business name.

3. Fill out your core details: address, service area, phone number, and website.

4. Verify your business (Google will usually send a postcard with a code to your address).

5. While you wait for verification, flesh out your profile by adding photos, your opening hours, a business description, and your services.

Don't Wait for Customers to Find You by Accident

In today's digital world, visibility is everything. A Google Business Profile is your digital front door, inviting customers from all over Newcastle to find you. Take 15 minutes to claim and set up your profile today—your future customers are already searching.

Need a hand getting your online presence sorted? At AdToast, we help local businesses shine. Contact us for a free consultation!