Astory Media Marketing Agency Ireland - SEO, Web Design & Google Ads Experts
Zane Vondracek
07 Aug
07Aug

Getting found online isn’t just about having a website. If you run a local business in Ireland and you’re not showing up on Google Maps or in the top local search results, you’re missing out on real customers.

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is your digital shopfront. Done right, it can get you more calls, messages, visits, and reviews than any social media post or newspaper ad.This guide walks you through exactly how to optimise your profile the right way.


Table of Contents


Why Google Business Profile Matters

When someone searches for “plumber near me” or “best web designer in Dundalk”, Google shows a map with three local business listings. These are known as the local pack. Most customers choose from these top three.Optimising your Google Business Profile helps:

  • Appear in the local pack and Google Maps
  • Attract more high-intent local leads
  • Build trust through visible reviews and ratings
  • Support your overall SEO strategy

Claim and Verify Your Listing

Before anything else, you need to own and verify your listing.

  1. Visit google.com/business
  2. Search for your business name
  3. If it exists, click “Claim this business”
  4. If not, create a new one with accurate details
  5. Choose a verification method (postcard or phone)

Until you verify, changes won’t go live.


Complete Every Section (Properly)

Google rewards profiles that are 100 percent complete. Make sure to fill in:

  • Business name (exact match to signage)
  • Address (check it's accurate on Maps)
  • Local phone number
  • Opening hours, including holidays
  • Website: www.astory.pro
  • Booking link: Book a free strategy consultation
  • Services with short, keyword-friendly descriptions

Add as much relevant info as you can. The more detail you provide, the better your chances of ranking.


Choose the Right Categories

Your primary category determines what searches you appear in. Choose carefully.Examples:

  • Marketing agency
  • SEO service
  • Web designer
  • Photographer
  • Drainage service

Add a few secondary categories if they apply, but keep it relevant.


Write an SEO-Friendly Business Description

Use this space to tell Google and customers what you do, who you serve, and where you’re based.Tips:

  • Mention your core services and your town or region
  • Include local keywords like “SEO agency in Dundalk”
  • Keep it within 750 characters
  • Focus on clarity, not fluff

Add High-Quality Photos and Videos

People trust what they can see. Profiles with good images get more clicks.Add photos of:

  • Your workspace or shop exterior
  • Your team
  • Completed projects or products
  • Behind-the-scenes shots

Upload at least once a week if possible. Use descriptive filenames (e.g. “web-design-office-dundalk.jpg”).


Collect and Respond to Reviews

Reviews are one of the strongest ranking signals in local SEO. They also build trust quickly.Ask for reviews:

  • After a completed job
  • In a follow-up email or message
  • Using your direct review link

Always reply:

  • Thank happy customers
  • Stay calm and respectful with negative feedback

Need help with replies? See our Google Business Profile review service


Post Weekly Updates and Offers

Google wants to see an active profile. Use the Posts tab to:

  • Promote current deals or offers
  • Share updates, new services, or blog content
  • Highlight events or seasonal campaigns

Make posts visual and include CTAs like “Call now” or “Book online”.


Use Keywords, But Don’t Spam

Add keywords naturally to:

  • Business description
  • Product and service sections
  • Posts
  • Q&A section (you can even post your own Q&As)

Never stuff keywords. Relevance and readability are key.


Link to Your Website and Booking Page

Make it easy for customers to take the next step.Include:


Track Performance in GBP Insights

Google provides basic but useful analytics inside your profile dashboard.You can track:

  • What search terms people used to find you
  • How many people viewed or clicked
  • Calls, direction requests, website visits

Review this monthly to see what’s working.


Why Choose Astory Media

At Astory Media, we don’t just help you claim your Google Business Profile. We optimise it with:

  • Keyword-rich descriptions
  • Proper category structure
  • Weekly post creation
  • Review response strategies
  • Ranking improvement reports

We’re based in Ireland, we know the local market, and we treat your business like our own.📞 Book a free strategy consultation today or visit www.astory.pro to learn more.


FAQs

How long does it take to see results after optimisation?

Most businesses notice an improvement within 30 to 90 days depending on competition and location.Can I optimise my GBP on my own?

Yes, but many businesses don’t post regularly or monitor performance. Having experts helps maximise results.What’s the best way to get more reviews?

Ask after every sale or service and make it easy with a direct link. Consistency is key.Can I manage more than one business location?

Yes. Google allows multiple listings under one account.What if I get a fake review?

Flag it and respond calmly. Focus on getting more real 5-star reviews to outweigh it.


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Let’s get your business showing up in the right places.

Book your free consultation now or join our Facebook Group: Services Ireland to connect with other growing businesses.

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