If you own a local business in Yarraville (or anywhere in Australia), yourGoogle Business Profile(formerly Google My Business) is one of the easiest ways to get more customers—without spending a cent.
When people search for“best café near me”,“Yarraville hairdresser”, or“local plumber in Melbourne’s inner west”, Google shows them a map with the top businesses first. If your profile isn’t claimed or properly optimised, you’re missing out on free traffic, phone calls, and sales.
Here’s how toclaim, optimise, and make your Google Business Profile work hard for you.
Step 1: Claim Your Profile (or Create One)
Go to Google Business Profile.Sign in with yourbusiness email(not a personal one if possible).Search for your business name.If it appears, claim it; if not, follow the steps to create it.Verify your business.Google usually sends a postcard with a code, or sometimes lets you verify by phone or email.
Local Tip:Many Yarraville businesses already have an unclaimed listing created automatically by Google. Claim it ASAP before someone else does.
Step 2: Fill Out Every Detail
Google loves complete profiles. The more details you give, the higher you rank.
Business Name– Use your actual trading name, not keyword-stuffed titles.Address & Map Pin– Make sure it’s 100% accurate. Wrong map pins frustrate customers.Business Hours– Keep them updated for holidays and special events.Phone & Website– Use a number you actually answer.Categories & Services– Pick the main category first (e.g., Café, Hair Salon), then add extra services.Description– Write 2–3 sentences about what makes your business special. Include local keywords naturally (“family-owned Yarraville café serving award-winning coffee”).
Step 3: Add Photos That Sell
Businesses with great photos get more clicks and calls.Exterior photo: Help customers recognise your shop from the street.Interior photo: Show your atmosphere (clean, welcoming).Product/service shots: Post your best dishes, hairstyles, or products.Team photo: Locals love putting faces to names.
Pro Tip:Add at least 5–10 photos and update them monthly. Seasonal photos (like Christmas decorations or festival specials) show you’re active.
Step 4: Post Regular Updates
Google lets you post updates, like a mini social media feed.Sharespecials, new products, or events(e.g., “Pop-Up Coffee Stand at Yarraville Festival this Sunday!”).Postat least once a week—fresh posts can improve ranking.Always include acall to action: “Call now,” “Order online,” or “Visit us today.”
Step 5: Get More Reviews (and Reply to All of Them)
Reviews are gold. Businesses with lots of good reviews appear higher in search results.
Ask happy customers– A simple “Would you mind leaving us a quick Google review? It really helps local businesses” works.Make it easy– Send them your direct Google review link.Respond to every review– Thank people for positive ones and handle negative reviews calmly and professionally.
Local Tip:During events like theYarraville Festival, encourage visitors to leave a review while the experience is fresh.
Step 6: Use the Q&A Feature
People can ask questions directly on your profile. Check regularly and answer quickly.
Example:Q: “Do you take bookings for large groups?”A: “Yes, we do! Call us on 03 XXXX XXXX to reserve your table.”
This helps future customers too.
Step 7: Track and Improve
Google gives you insights:How many people found you on search or mapsHow many clicked your phone number or websiteWhat keywords they used to find you
Check monthly and adjust. If people often search “vegan coffee Yarraville” and you offer it, make sure it’s in your description and photos.
Why This Matters
Most customers now search online before deciding where to spend their money. A well-optimised Google Business Profile is like having a 24/7 digital shopfront that attracts locals even when you’re closed.
And best of all? It’scompletely free—you just need to keep it updated.
Quick Action Checklist
Claim or create your profile today Fill out every detail (accurately) Add 5–10 great photos Post weekly updates Ask for 2–3 new reviews every week Check insights monthly
Do this consistently, and you’ll notice more calls, more visits, and more locals choosing you over competitors.
