116: How to Get Found on Google by Local Clients

In this episode I break down how to use your Google Business Profile to finally show up for “service + near me” searches, without relying on social media or ads.

I explain why so many businesses stay invisible on Google even though they have a profile set up, and why this is rarely about competition or reviews. Most of the time, it comes down to missing structure, unclear categories, and a lack of alignment between your Google Business Profile and your website.

I share how to safely spy on competitors using a simple Chrome plugin, so you can spot opportunities you may be missing.

Throughout the episode, I focus on clarity over creativity, and show how small, intentional updates to your profile and website can lead to better local visibility, stronger trust signals, and more enquiries, without constant posting.

Key takeaways:

• Why you’re not showing up locally: It’s rarely because competitors are better. It’s usually because your Google Business Profile and website are missing key signals.
• The power of categories: How your primary and secondary categories influence what you show up for, and how to use them strategically.
• Spying the smart way: How to use competitor categories to guide your website structure and service pages.
• Website alignment matters: Why your homepage H1, subheadings, and service pages should reflect your Google Business Profile.
• Visibility without social media: How updates, photos, and services on your Google Business Profile can do more for local businesses than daily Instagram posting.

If you’ve felt hidden on Google, unsure what to optimise first, or tired of being told to “just keep posting”, this episode gives you a clear place to start and a more sustainable path to visibility.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Episode 054: Boosting Local Visibility - Google Business Profile LIVE LOCAL VISIBILITY STRATEGY
• Episode 102: Social media is optional – how to build a business without constant posting

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Website Success Show for more practical guidance on improving your website, Google visibility, and conversions without overwhelm.

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Ever feel like your business should be easier to find on Google?

You’re not imagining it - most local businesses already have a Google Business Profile, but it’s quietly sitting there, half-filled and hidden. That means people searching for your exact services might be finding your competitors instead.

The good news? You don’t need to spend hours posting on social media to fix it.
A few intentional updates to your Google Business Profile can make a big difference in how often you show up in Maps and local searches.

That’s where my Local Google Visibility Checklist comes in.
It gives you a clear, practical list of things to review and update - all the small changes that help Google trust your business and make it easier for nearby clients to find and book you.

It’s free, simple to follow, and designed for local beauty, health, and wellness businesses who want to grow in a calm, sustainable way (without having to rely on social media).

Download your free checklist now https://thewebsitesuccesshub.com/google-profile-checklist