Optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) also known as GMB can improve visibility and attract more customers. However, simple mistakes can hurt your ranking and make you lose opportunities. Staying ahead in 2025 means avoiding these common GBP mistakes. Let’s explore what you should avoid and how to fix them.

Using Incorrect Business Details

Inconsistent business names, addresses, or phone numbers (NAP) confuse customers and harm rankings.

Fix: Ensure your business details match across platforms like Google, social media, and your website. 88% of online consumers trust accurate listings.

Neglecting Customer Reviews

Ignoring reviews makes your business appear unresponsive. Negative reviews without replies may drive away potential customers.

Fix: Respond to all reviews quickly. Acknowledge positive feedback and address complaints professionally. Businesses with active review management see 12% more leads on average.

Picking the Wrong Categories

Wrong categories reduce your visibility in relevant searches. Customers struggle to find your services.

Fix: Choose accurate categories that reflect your services. If you’re a contractor, use terms like “home repair” or “plumbing service.” Businesses in correct categories rank higher in 82% of local searches.

Skipping Photos and Videos

A profile without visuals looks incomplete and less trustworthy. Customers rely on images to make decisions.

Fix: Upload high-quality photos of your work and team. Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions on Google Maps.

Ignoring Google Posts

Ignoring Google Posts wastes a chance to engage customers with updates, offers, or news.

Fix: Use Google Posts to share promotions or seasonal discounts. Posts with images see 25% more clicks than plain text.

Missing Out on Q&A

Unanswered questions lead to confusion. Potential customers might skip your business if they don’t get quick answers.

Fix: Monitor and answer questions promptly. Add FAQs to your GBP. This helps build trust and makes it easier for customers to choose you.

Not Verifying Your Business

Unverified profiles won’t appear in search results. This means fewer leads and missed opportunities.

Fix: Complete Google’s verification process. Verified businesses receive 4x more views than unverified ones.

Overlooking Mobile Optimization

Most searches happen on smartphones. A poorly optimized profile frustrates users.

Fix: Check your profile on mobile devices. Ensure it loads fast and displays information clearly. Mobile-friendly profiles attract 70% more local visitors.

Ignoring Insights Data

Missing out on Google’s insights means you won’t know how customers interact with your profile.

Fix: Use insights to track profile views, searches, and clicks. This helps identify what works and what needs improvement.

Keyword Stuffing in Descriptions

Adding too many keywords feels spammy. It reduces readability and can hurt your ranking.

Fix: Write concise descriptions with natural keywords. Focus on what your business offers and how you can help.