Local Leads for Free?

Sounds too good to be true?  Well Read on..

If you're a builder, plumber, electrician, decorator, or run any kind of service business in Bournemouth, Christchurch or the New Forest, your next customer is probably already looking for you on Google.

The good news? You don't need a fancy website or a big ad budget to show up.  The Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free tool that helps you appear in local searches and on Google Maps—right where people are searching for your services.

⚡ Quick Stats You Should Know:

• 93% of people search Google when looking for a local business
• Businesses with a Google Business Profile get 7x more clicks than those without
• Over 50% of 'near me' searches result in a store or service visit within 24 hours

What Is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is what shows up when someone makes a location-based search. For example, for something like:

• "SEO agency Bournemouth"
• "Website designer near me"
• "Best Google ads agency in Christchurch"

Your profile includes your business name, phone number, website (if you have one), your services, opening hours, reviews, and photos, and it appears in what's known as the Map Pack,  sometimes known as the Local Pack(the top 3 businesses shown on Google Maps).

Even if you don't have a shop or office, you can still appear in local searches if you serve the area.

Why It's a Game-Changer for Local Trades and Services

Local customers are searching right now. If you're not showing up, you're losing out on easy leads.

Let's say someone types "painter near me"—Google shows a map with 3 top listings. Those three businesses are getting the majority of the phone calls. And all they did was set up and optimise their Google Business Profile.

📍 Appearing in the Map Pack Can Lead to:

• More phone calls
• More website visits
• More quote requests
• More trust from new customers

Simple Steps to Get Set Up (and Seen)

Setting up a profile only takes about 10–15 minutes. But to get results, you need to optimise it.

1. Add All the Right Details

Include your business name, phone number, the areas you serve (e.g. Bournemouth, Christchurch, New Forest), your hours, and a short description of your services.

➡️ Top Tip: Make sure your address and contact details match what's on your website and socials.

2. Write a Local-Friendly Description

You should explain clearly what services you provide, where you are based and who your customers are.

✅ Example:

"We build and optimise high-performing websites for small businesses in Bournemouth, Christchurch and the New Forest areas. Our focus is on generating leads for our customers to enable them to grow their business. In addition to website design, we also provide search engine optimisation, Google Ads and social media marketing."

3. Post Regular Updates

Google lets you add posts, which show up in your profile. Use these to share:

• Special offers
• New services
• Customer photos
• Seasonal updates

It takes 2 minutes to post and helps keep your listing fresh. Google loves that.

4. Add Photos (and Keep Adding Them)

Photos help build trust and show what you can do. Add:

• Before and after pics
• Your van or branding
• Happy customers
• Your team at work

📸 Businesses with photos get 42% more direction requests and 35% more click-throughs to their websites.

5. Collect Reviews (and Reply!)

Reviews are one of the top factors in local rankings. They also help customers decide if they can trust you.

Start by asking your best customers for a five-star review. You can send them a link either by email, SMS or even WhatsApp.

🛠️ 60% of people say they won't use a business with no reviews

TOP TIP 💬 Replying to reviews shows Google you're active and that helps your ranking too

How It Helps You Get Leads (Even Without a Website)

Even if you don't have a website, a Google Business Profile gives you visibility. But if you do have a website, linking it to your profile gives people a direct route to contact you or request a quote.

You could show up when someone searches:

• "Electrician near me"
• "Loft conversion specialist in Bournemouth"
• "Best plumber in The New Forest"

>>> Find out more about Local SEO <<<

🎯 Want to Know How You Rank Locally?

We offer a free local SEO and website audit that includes:

• A breakdown of where (and if) you appear on Google
• What your Google Business Profile is missing
• Steps to help you get into the Map Pack and generate more enquiries

Click here to get your 👉 Free Local Ranking Report