If you’re running a local business, you’ve likely heard of Google My Business (GMB), now called Google Business Profile (GBP). It’s the tool that puts your business on the map—literally. But what many business owners overlook is the power of GMB Posts. Used correctly, GMB Posts can become a lead-generating machine for your local business.
Let’s break down how to use GMB Posts effectively to attract, engage, and convert local customers.
What Are GMB Posts?
GMB Posts are updates you can share directly on your Google Business Profile. These posts appear in your business’s Knowledge Panel on Google Search and Maps. Think of them as mini-ads or announcements you can publish without spending a dime.
There are several types of posts:
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What’s New (general updates or announcements)
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Events
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Offers
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Product highlights
Each post can include text, images, CTA buttons (like Call Now, Learn More, Sign Up), and links to your website.
Why GMB Posts Matter for Local Lead Generation
When someone searches for your business or services in your area, your GMB profile shows up before your website. This is prime digital real estate—and GMB Posts help you control what they see. Here’s how GMB Posts help drive leads:
1. Increase Visibility
Google favors active profiles. Posting regularly signals to Google that your business is engaged and up to date. More activity often translates to better visibility in local search.
2. Drive Traffic to Key Pages
Each post can include a call-to-action and a link. You can send users directly to your booking page, landing page, or special offer—turning views into clicks, and clicks into leads.
3. Build Trust & Authority
Fresh, relevant posts give potential customers confidence that your business is active and professional. It’s like keeping your shop window updated.
4. Highlight Timely Offers
Limited-time discounts, seasonal services, or urgent announcements can all be promoted in real-time. These drive conversions by creating urgency.
How to Use GMB Posts Right
Posting randomly won’t help. Here’s how to make sure your GMB Posts are working to grow your business:
✅ 1. Be Consistent
Post at least once a week. Not only does this keep your profile fresh, but posts also expire after 7 days (except for event or offer posts with a defined date). Don’t let your profile go stale.
✅ 2. Use Eye-Catching Images
A bland or pixelated image won’t attract attention. Use high-quality photos (preferably 1200×900 pixels), relevant to your post. People notice visuals first.
✅ 3. Keep Copy Short & Sharp
You have around 150–300 characters before your content gets cut off in the preview. Get to the point quickly. What’s the value? What should they do next?
✅ 4. Add a Clear CTA
Always use a call-to-action. Whether it’s Book Now, Get Offer, or Call Today, don’t assume users will know what to do—tell them clearly.
✅ 5. Link to Relevant Pages
Don’t just link to your homepage. Use UTM parameters and link to specific landing pages to track what posts are converting into leads.
Advanced Tips for Maximum Impact
🎯 Use Keywords (But Naturally)
Incorporate relevant keywords, like your service and location (e.g., Affordable plumbing in Dallas). This can help with ranking—but avoid keyword stuffing.
📅 Plan Your Content Calendar
Don’t post randomly. Align your GMB posts with your seasonal promotions, blog posts, or local events. Treat it like a content marketing channel.
📊 Monitor Performance
Google provides post insights, like views and clicks. Use this data to double down on what works and ditch what doesn’t.
🌟 Repurpose Customer Reviews
Turn your best customer reviews into GMB Posts. This social proof can convince new visitors to give you a call or visit your store.
What Not to Do
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Don’t use stock photos that look overly generic.
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Don’t ignore expired posts—delete or update them.
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Don’t write like a robot. Be conversational and friendly.
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Don’t skip the CTA—it’s your conversion tool!
Real-World Example
Let’s say you run a local HVAC business. Here’s how a GMB Post can work:
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Image: Technician fixing an AC unit.
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Headline: “Summer AC Tune-Up – Only $49 This Week!”
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Copy: “Stay cool and save! Schedule your AC checkup this week and get it for just $49. Offer valid until Sunday.”
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CTA Button: “Book Now” (linked to booking page)
Anyone seeing this on your GMB profile is already interested in your service—and now they have a reason to click and convert.
Final Thoughts
GMB Posts are underused but incredibly powerful for local SEO and lead generation. They’re free, easy to manage, and offer great visibility on search results where it counts most—locally.
By posting regularly, using sharp visuals and targeted CTAs, and aligning content with your business goals, you can turn browsers into buyers with just a few clicks.
💡 Start today: Pick one offer, write a simple post, add a great image, and hit publish. Watch what happens over the next week. Local leads could be just a GMB Post away.
Also, you can learn more about Rank in Local Search here.