PHILIPPINES – If you run a small busines, there’s one PR tactic you shouldn’t be missing out on: listing on Google My Business (GMB).
Now known as the Google Business Profile, it might just be your most powerful free marketing and PR tool. By helping you appear on searches right before a customer decides to visit or call, GMB makes you visible when it matters most.
Let’s break down why every local shop should be using it and how to get started.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business/Google Business Profile is a free Google tool that allows business owners to manage how their business appears on Google Search and Google Maps. It’s literal public relations!
This is highly valuable for businesses in the Philippines since over 94% of Filipinos use it as their main search engine (Spiralytics, 2025 ).
GMB displays key information about businesses, such as:
● Business name
● Hours of operation
● Contact number
● Website or social links
● Location on the map
● Reviews from customers
● Photos of your products, place, or services
Think of your GMB profile as your digital storefront, visible 24/7 even when you’re not open.
Why GMB is a Game-Changer for Local Shops
1. You Appear in “Near Me” Searches
We often search for “tapsilog near me,” “shoe repair open now,” or “WiFi café Makati.” With a verified GMB profile, you’re more likely to appear in these local search results. This can earn you more foot traffic and inquiries.
2. You Build Instant Credibility
When people search for your business name, they’ll likely see your Google rating (stars), real customer reviews, updated photos, and location on Google Maps. All these contribute to building trust and credibility.
Without that information readily available online, potential customers may think your business doesn’t exist, or worse, isn’t reliable.
3. You Control the First Impression
Without a GMB listing, Google may pull outdated info from random websites or blogs. But if you manage your own listing, you can ensure your hours, address, and contact info are always accurate. You can post weekly updates or promos on GMB, much like on social media.
For example, you can post something like this:
“Now serving taho frappes! Visit us in UP Village. Open until 9 PM.”
– Posted via GMB
4. You Can Highlight Customer Reviews
Encourage happy customers to leave Google reviews. Responding to both positive and negative ones shows that you’re active and professional. Plus, having more good reviews means a higher ranking in local search results.
Incentivize your customers by giving a freebie or discount when they leave honest feedback. Here’s an example:
“Show us your Google review and get a 10% discount on your next visit!”
5. You Can Upload Real Photos That Sell
Filipino customers love seeing food photos before they dine, interior shots before they visit, your staff or team at work, and your actual menu or pricing.
Upload your own images to avoid relying on user-uploaded ones, which may be blurry, unflattering, or outdated.
6. It Helps You Appear in Google Maps Results
Many locals navigate through Google Maps to discover shops, restaurants, or salons. With an active GMB listing, your business becomes part of the digital neighborhood. This is especially useful during commutes, errands, or delivery runs.
How to Set Up Google My Business
Here’s a quick rundown of how you can easily set up your profile on GMB:
Step 1: Go to business.google.com
Step 2: Click “Manage Now” and log in with a Gmail account
Step 3: Type in your business name and category (e.g., bakery, car wash)
Step 4: Enter your complete address and location pin
Step 5: Add business hours, phone number, and website or social links
Step 6: Upload photos and complete your profile
Step 7: Verify your business by postcard, phone, or email
Pro-tip: Make sure you verify everything to prevent fake listings and prove that your business is real!
How to Keep Your GMB Listing Active
When you finally have your GMB profile, make sure to keep it fresh and friendly. Here are best practices to follow:
● Post weekly updates of promos, announcements, or shout outs to loyal customers
● Upload new photos so people know what’s new and what to expect
● Reply to feedback with warmth and professionalism
● Update during the holidays to let your followers know your schedule ahead of time
● Check the Insights tab to see how many people are actually searching for you
How a PR or Digital Marketing Agency Can Help
If you’re not yet confident handling your GMB listing on your own, a trusted PR agency in the Philippines can help you with following:
● Set up and verify your GMB profile
● Optimize your description and keywords for search visibility
● Respond to reviews and manage reputation
● Take professional photos of your store or products
● Integrate your GMB with social media and email marketing
For time-strapped small business owners, this kind of help ensures you look great and stay visible without needing to monitor every detail.
Put Your Business on the Map, Literally
In a competitive local market, Google My Business is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to attract new customers. It helps you show up at the right place, at the right time – all for free!
If you’re not on GMB yet, now’s the time to set up your profile and take control of your digital presence. Take it a step further by optimizing your profile with the help of a digital marketing agency to get the best support today!
