How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Local SEO in Calgary
If your Calgary business isn’t showing up on Google or Google Maps, you’re not alone. Many local businesses struggle with visibility online, even if they have a website. The solution? Your Google Business Profile (GBP). Optimizing it correctly can drastically improve your chances of being found by local customers searching for your services.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your Google Business Profile in top shape for Calgary SEO.
1. Claim and Verify Your Business Profile
Before you can optimize anything, make sure you claim your business on Google and complete the verification process. Google will send a postcard with a code to your business address, which confirms that your business exists in Calgary.
✅ Pro tip: Businesses that skip verification often don’t appear in local search results or Google Maps.
2. Complete Every Section Thoroughly
Google rewards completeness. Fill out every field in your profile:
Business name
Address (use a consistent format across all platforms)
Phone number (local Calgary area code)
Business hours
Website URL
Services and products
Business description (include relevant keywords like “Calgary plumbing,” “Calgary contractor,” etc.)
The more info you provide, the more Google can confidently match your business to relevant searches.
3. Choose the Right Categories
Selecting the correct category is critical for local SEO.
Main category: what best describes your primary business (e.g., “Plumber,” “Contractor,” “Digital Marketing Agency”)
Additional categories: related services you offer (up to 9)
Example: A Calgary roofing company might use:
Main: Roofing Contractor
Additional: Roof Inspection, Roof Repair, Gutter Installation
✅ Pro tip: Categories affect what searches your business can appear in — choose wisely.
4. Add High-Quality Photos
Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites according to Google.
Include:
Exterior shots of your Calgary location
Interior photos
Team photos
Before-and-after shots of work or projects
High-quality images help potential customers trust your business and improve your local SEO.
5. Collect and Respond to Reviews
Reviews are a major local ranking factor. Encourage satisfied customers to leave honest reviews.
Tips:
Respond to every review professionally
Use keywords naturally when replying
Address any negative reviews promptly
Example: “Thanks for your review, Sarah! We’re glad our Calgary plumbing services solved your issue quickly.”
6. Post Regular Updates
Google allows businesses to post updates, promotions, and events. These posts:
Show your business is active
Improve engagement
Provide fresh content for Google
Ideas for posts:
Special offers (“10% off Calgary HVAC services this month”)
Company news (“We’ve expanded our Calgary team!”)
Helpful tips (“How to winterize your Calgary home plumbing”)
7. Optimize for Keywords and Location
Use local keywords naturally throughout your profile:
Business description
Services list
Posts and updates
Example:
“Calgary roofing contractor”
“Emergency plumbing services in Calgary”
“Red Deer and Calgary bathroom renovations”
Including locations helps Google understand where your services are offered, boosting your chances in local searches and map results.
8. Use Google Business Profile Insights
Google provides analytics to see how people find your business. Track:
How customers search for your business (direct vs. discovery)
Where customers find you on Google (search vs. maps)
Customer actions (website clicks, calls, direction requests)
Use these insights to refine your profile and marketing strategies.
9. Keep Your Information Updated
If your hours, services, or contact info change, update your profile immediately. Inaccurate info can hurt both your SEO and customer trust.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful ways Calgary businesses can improve local SEO. It’s free, easy to manage, and can directly drive customers to your business.
If you need help getting your Calgary business visible on Google and Google Maps, consider contacting a local SEO expert or marketing agency — especially if you run a trade or contractor business.
Get your business into Traditional and AI Search and be found on all platforms.
