aligning puzzle pieces google business profile and website

Imagine two puzzle pieces that are meant to fit together perfectly.

If one piece is slightly off, the whole picture looks incomplete. That’s exactly what happens when your website and Google Business Profile (GBP) don’t align – especially when it comes to your service keywords. The connection breaks, leaving potential customers confused and more likely to move on to someone who “fits” their needs better.

What Is a Google Business Profile?

In case you don’t know, a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that lets you manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. It displays key details like your business name, services, location, hours, and customer reviews, helping local customers quickly find and connect with you.

Why Keywords Matter

At the heart of any good digital strategy is keyword research. Keywords are the phrases people type into Google when they’re looking for services – like “San Diego web design” or “local SEO expert.”

If you haven’t done your research to identify these essential keywords, you’re leaving visibility to chance. Google pays close attention to the words you use on your website AND on your Google Business Profile. If they don’t match, Google gets mixed signals about what you actually do, and customers may not find you at all.

The Mistake I Made (and What I Learned)

Early on, I thought listing every service term possible on my Google Business Profile would help me rank for everything. Big mistake. I cluttered it with too many vague or overlapping terms, and instead of helping my rankings, I hurt them. Google didn’t know what I was really offering, and customers didn’t either.

I learned the hard way that less is more. Focusing on a few clear, specific services – ones that I’m actually known for – made all the difference. My rankings improved, and so did the quality of leads coming in.

Step 1: Start with Keyword Research

Start by identifying the main services you offer and what your customers are actually searching for. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or SEMrush to uncover:

  • Primary services (e.g., San Diego web design, WordPress solutions).
  • Local keywords (e.g., local SEO expert San Diego).

Choose a handful of focused, high-value keywords to prioritize.

Step 2: Simplify Your Google Business Profile

Clean up your Google Business Profile and focus on the services that matter most.

  • Use your top keywords in the Business Description and Services section.
  • Keep it clear and specific – don’t clutter it with too many terms.

For example, if you specialize in “WordPress web design,” make that prominent instead of listing unrelated terms.

Step 3: Align Your Website Content

Your website is the foundation of your online presence. The keywords on your GBP should appear naturally throughout your website:

  • Headlines (H1 and H2 tags)
  • Service Pages (dedicated pages for your top services)
  • Meta Titles and Descriptions
  • Content (write customer-focused, clear descriptions that reflect your keywords).

When Google sees the same clear message on both platforms, your rankings improve, and customers get a consistent experience.

Keep It Consistent

Consistency builds trust. Google rewards businesses that align their Google Business Profile and website because it’s a sign of relevance and clarity. Think of it like curating a menu – focus on what you do best, and customers will keep coming back.

The key is focus. By researching your keywords, simplifying your Google Business Profile, and aligning your website, you’re telling Google and your customers exactly what you offer. And when you get that right, you’ll be far easier to find – and trust.

Looking for help? I might know just the right person! Reach out and let’s connect.