This article is part of our comprehensive Social Media Automation Guide.
Why Google Business Profile Matters for SEO
Google Business Profile (GBP) posts appear in:
- Google Search: Your business panel shows recent posts
- Google Maps: Posts appear when users browse
- Local Pack: Active profiles rank higher
Yet most businesses ignore GBP or post sporadically. This is a major opportunity.
The SEO Impact of GBP Posts
Direct Benefits
- Freshness signals: Google favors active profiles
- Keyword opportunities: Posts can target local search terms
- Increased engagement: Posts drive calls, directions, website visits
- Review prompts: Regular activity reminds customers to review
Indirect Benefits
- Profile completeness: More content = more complete profile
- User engagement: Active profiles get more interactions
- Competitive edge: Most competitors don't post regularly
What to Post on GBP
Post Types
Update Posts
- Business news and announcements
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Staff highlights
- Community involvement
Offer Posts
- Special promotions
- Limited-time deals
- Seasonal offers
Event Posts
- Upcoming events
- Webinars and workshops
- Sales events
Product Posts
- New product highlights
- Featured services
- Best sellers
SEO-Optimized Post Content
Include in every post:
- Primary keyword: What you want to rank for
- Location keywords: City, neighborhood, region
- Call-to-action: Direct users to take action
- Image: Visual content increases engagement
Posting Schedule Strategy
Optimal Frequency
- Minimum: 1 post per week
- Recommended: 2-3 posts per week
- Maximum: 1 post per day
Best Posting Times
For local businesses:
- Weekdays: 2-4pm local time
- Best days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
- Avoid: Weekend evenings (low engagement)
Content Calendar
Week 1:
- Monday: Update post about services
- Wednesday: Customer success story
- Friday: Weekend special offer
Week 2:
- Monday: Industry tip or advice
- Wednesday: Team/company update
- Friday: Product highlight
Rotate through these themes monthly.
Automation Best Practices
What to Automate
- Scheduling: Queue posts in advance
- Recurring content: Evergreen posts on rotation
- Cross-posting: Adapt other social content for GBP
What to Keep Manual
- Responses: Reply to questions personally
- Reviews: Address reviews individually
- Time-sensitive: Real-time updates as needed
GBP Post Templates
Update Post Template
[Engaging opening about your business/service]
[Value proposition or key benefit]
[Call-to-action: Call us, visit our website, etc.]
#[LocalKeyword] #[ServiceKeyword] #[CityName]
Offer Post Template
[Attention-grabbing offer headline]
[Details of the offer and what's included]
[Urgency: Limited time, while supplies last]
[How to redeem: Call, visit, use code]
Measuring GBP Post Performance
Track These Metrics
- Post views: How many people saw each post
- Clicks: Website, call, directions from posts
- Search queries: What searches trigger your profile
- Profile visits: Overall profile traffic over time
Optimization Cycle
- Post consistently for 4-6 weeks
- Review performance data
- Identify top-performing content types
- Double down on what works
- Test new approaches for underperforming areas
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inconsistent posting: Random posts don't build momentum
- No images: Text-only posts get less engagement
- Missing CTAs: Every post should have clear next steps
- Ignoring responses: Users expect quick replies
- Duplicate content: GBP favors unique content
Ready to automate your GBP posts? OneUp supports Google Business Profile scheduling alongside all your other social platforms.