Sure, here are the essential steps for setting up and optimizing a Google Business Profile (GBP) from scratch:

1. Create and Optimize a Google Map Listing

1. Sign in to Google Business Profile: Use your Google account to sign in or create one if you don’t have it.
2. Add Your Business: Enter your business name and address. If your business doesn’t have a physical location, you can specify the service area.
3. Choose Business Category: Select the most appropriate category for your business.
4. Add Contact Information: Provide your phone number and website URL.
5. Verify Your Business: Google will send a verification code to your business address. Enter this code to verify your listing.
6. Optimize Your Listing: Add photos, business hours, and a detailed description. Regularly update this information to keep it current.

2. Set Up and Fully Optimize the Google Business Profile

1. Complete All Information: Ensure your business name, address, phone number, and website are accurate and consistent.
2. Add Business Hours: Include regular hours, special hours for holidays, and any temporary changes.
3. Upload High-Quality Photos: Add photos of your business, products, and services. This helps attract more customers.
4. Select Appropriate Categories: Choose primary and secondary categories that best describe your business.
5. Encourage Reviews: Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and respond to them promptly.
6. Utilize Attributes: Add relevant attributes like “wheelchair accessible” or “free Wi-Fi” to provide more information to potential customers.

3. Draft an Engaging Google Business Profile Post

Create a post to share a news update or promotion. Here’s an example:

Title: “Exciting New Arrivals at [Your Business Name]!”
*
Content*: “We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our latest collection of [product/service]. Visit us at [location] to explore the new range and enjoy a special 10% discount on your first purchase! Offer valid until [date]. Don’t miss out!”

Call to Action: “Visit Us Today” or “Learn More”

4. Generate Schema Markup Code

1. Use a Schema Generator: Go to a schema generator tool like technicalseo.com.
2. Select Local Business Schema: Fill in the required details such as business name, address, phone number, and website.
3. Generate the Code: Copy the generated schema markup code.
4. Embed in WordPress:

• Go to your WordPress dashboard.
• Navigate to the blog post where you want to add the schema.
• Switch to the HTML view and paste the schema markup code in the appropriate section of your post.
• Save and publish the post.

By following these steps, you can effectively set up and optimize your Google Business Profile to enhance your local SEO and attract more customers¹²³.

If you need further assistance with any of these steps, feel free to ask!