Google Business Profiles are free and easy to use, so why are some local business owners hesitant to create their profiles? Unfortunately, there are roadblocks for many folks before they are ready to put their name on the map. Understanding the reasons why some business owners are hesitant to set up their Google Business Profiles is the first step.

Let’s break down these roadblocks and let the customer traffic flow on through!

What Prevents Local Business Owners from Setting Up Their Google Business Profiles?

Time – They Are Busy!

Business owners are certainly not known for their free time. Commonly, business owners are spending all hours of the day running the ins and outs of their business, even trying to solve problems while they’re in bed trying to fall asleep! With their time stretched over so many different areas, it’s not surprising that marketing can often come last.

Awareness – They Don’t Realize They Qualify

By now, most people have experience using Google and Google Maps to find businesses. However, not all business owners realize they qualify for a Google Business Profile, especially service-area businesses that travel to locations around the community. Local businesses without an address, as long as they’re doing some sort of in-person service (towing cars, landscaping, dog-walking, etc.), are encouraged to create a Google Business Profile. Instead of establishing a business address on their profile like storefronts would, they should select the areas they serve in the community.

Anxiety – Lack of Confidence in Their Ability

Business owners are usually smart and driven, but they’re not always confident in their technical abilities. This can cause them to procrastinate setting up a Google Business Profile. Many don’t realize how simple the process can be. There’s no need to be tech-savvy or have any prior knowledge of web development or marketing to set up a profile. By following the straightforward instructions provided by Google, it’s quite easy to work through the process. The hardest part can sometimes be getting started. Head to the start page and don’t overthink it!

Doubt – Distrust of Whether It Will (or How Much It Will) Help Grow Their Business

Marketing techniques change often, especially as new technologies and platforms emerge. Business owners might be skeptical about where to put their effort. Even marketing specialists’ opinions differ on the topic. However, most people will agree that free marketing is a great place to start. A Google Business Profile is free to create and it can provide a major stream of customers in your direction. For the small amount of effort it takes to create the profile and manage it, it’s worth the outcome. Google Business has been around for a while and there’s no sign that it’s coming to an end anytime soon.

Selecting Imagery – Which Images to Choose & How to Upload Them

Unless their business is in photography, chances are high that business owners will find this step of creating a Google Business Profile annoying. Searching and finding those photos you took throughout the years, finding your business logo file, and sorting through the best way to upload them will take a bit of time. Keep in mind why images are so important for potential customers: they are trying to gauge your trustworthiness, your service or product selection and quality, and ultimately whether or not they want to give you their money. Review the photo guidelines or even get support from friends, staff or an agency if you’re feeling lost. The good news is that if you’ve reached this part of the process, it means you’re almost done!

Remove the Roadblocks and Let in the Traffic

Setting up a Google Business Profile takes no time at all and helps get more eyes on what makes your business special and unique from others offering similar services in the area—which translates into more leads and conversions for you! If local business owners feel overwhelmed setting up their own profile due to lack of time or confidence, they shouldn’t worry; creating (and even managing) their profile isn’t as hard as they might think once they get started.