Why You Need A Google Business Profile For Your Trade Business
In today’s digital world, word of mouth isn’t enough. When someone needs a plumber, electrician, or concreter, they’re not flipping through the phone book — they’re typing “tradie near me” into Google. And the first thing they’ll see isn’t a website — it’s a Google Business Profile (GBP).
If you run a trade business and you’re not taking advantage of this free, powerful tool, you’re missing out on one of the best sources of local leads available. Here’s why every tradie should have a Google Business Profile — and how it can help you grow your business.
What Is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile (previously called Google My Business) is a free online listing that helps your business show up in Google Search and Google Maps. It allows you to display key details such as your:
- Business name and address
- Contact number and website link
- Opening hours
- Services offered
- Customer reviews
- Photos and updates
When someone searches for services like “plumber near me” or “electrician in Brisbane”, Google uses these listings to show nearby businesses that match the search. That means your business could appear right in front of people looking for your exact service — often before they even click through to any websites.
Appear on Google Maps and Local Searches
One of the biggest advantages of having a Google Business Profile is appearing on Google Maps. This is crucial for trade businesses that serve local areas.
Let’s say someone types “roof repair in Burleigh Heads”. If your business is listed with a verified address and service area, you can appear in the Local 3-Pack — the top three map listings that show before regular search results.
This gives you an immediate edge. You’re visible, local, and convenient — all key factors that make customers more likely to choose you over a competitor.
And because people tend to hire tradies close to home, Google Maps becomes one of the best free lead sources you can have.
Collect and Display Reviews That Build Trust
Reviews are one of the most important parts of your profile. They’re social proof that you do good work — and customers pay attention.
According to surveys, over 90% of people read online reviews before choosing a local business, and most trust them as much as personal recommendations.
With a Google Business Profile, happy clients can leave star ratings and written reviews directly on your listing. Future customers can see them instantly when they search for your business or trade category.
You can also respond to reviews, showing professionalism and appreciation. A few examples:
- Thanking happy clients for their feedback.
- Addressing concerns respectfully if someone leaves a negative comment.
- Encouraging satisfied customers to share photos of completed work.
The more positive reviews you collect, the more credibility your business gains — and the higher you may appear in Google’s local rankings.
Showcase Photos of Your Work
People want to see what they’re paying for — and visuals help you stand out.
Your Google Business Profile lets you upload photos of your projects, vehicles, team, and logo. For tradies, this is powerful. A clean, professional gallery of before-and-after shots can instantly show potential clients the quality of your workmanship.
Here are a few ideas:
- Before and after transformations: A freshly pressure-washed driveway, a completed deck, or a new switchboard installation.
- Action shots: Your team working on-site or using professional equipment.
- Finished jobs: Showcase the end result of a bathroom renovation or new concrete slab.
Google even prioritises profiles that regularly add new photos — so updating your gallery can help boost your visibility in search.
Add Contact Details and Business Information
A complete profile makes it easy for potential customers to get in touch without even visiting your website.
You can include:
- Your phone number for direct calls.
- A link to your website or enquiry form.
- Your service areas, so locals know where you operate.
- Your business hours, ensuring customers contact you at the right time.
Many users browse on their phone — so being one tap away from a call or directions can make the difference between landing a job or losing it.
Generate Free Local Leads
For trade businesses, local visibility is everything. Most customers want someone nearby — and Google knows it.
When your Business Profile is set up properly, you can show up for searches like:
- “plumber in Palm Beach”
- “roof repairs near me”
- “electrician Gold Coast”
- “pressure washing in Brisbane”
Each of these searches has high intent — meaning the person is ready to book. And best of all, these leads are completely free.
Unlike ads or paid directories, your Google Business Profile doesn’t cost a cent to create or maintain. Once it’s verified, it runs 24/7, helping new customers find and contact you.
Build Credibility and Professionalism
Having a verified, well-maintained Google Business Profile instantly adds credibility to your business.
It tells customers that you’re legitimate, professional, and trustworthy. A profile with your logo, photos, contact details, and real reviews gives customers confidence — especially when compared to a competitor with no online presence at all.
Even if you don’t yet have a website, your profile acts as a mini-website. People can learn what you do, where you work, and how to reach you. It’s often the first impression potential customers will have — so make it count.
Keep Customers Updated With Posts
Google Business Profiles also allow you to post updates, similar to social media. You can share:
- Seasonal promotions (e.g. “10% off roof cleaning this winter”)
- Photos of recent projects
- Service announcements (like “Now servicing northern suburbs”)
- Holiday or closure updates
Posting regularly keeps your profile active and signals to Google that your business is engaged — which can help with rankings too.
Easy to Set Up — and Completely Free
One of the best things about Google Business Profiles is how easy they are to set up.
Here’s how to do it:
- Go to google.com/business.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Add your business name, address, and category (e.g. plumber, concreter, electrician).
- Verify your location — usually by postcard, email, or phone.
- Add photos, your logo, and a short description of your services.
- Encourage customers to leave reviews.
Within days, your business can start appearing in local search results and on Google Maps.
And because it’s free to create and run, there’s no reason not to take advantage of it — even if you already advertise elsewhere.
Conclusion
If you’re a tradie looking for more local work, a Google Business Profile is one of the best tools you can use. It’s free, simple to manage, and proven to generate real leads.
It helps customers find you on Google Maps, shows off your work through photos and reviews, and builds trust before they’ve even picked up the phone.
Whether you’re just starting out or already established, a strong Google Business Profile is an essential part of your marketing toolkit. It’s where first impressions happen — and where your next job could be waiting.
Written by Tristan Evert
Tristan is an award-winning writer, journalist and marketing professional with over a decade of industry experience. From custom-built websites for roofing companies to blog posts for landscapers, there isn't much he hasn't covered when it comes to the trade sector.
