Despite its value, many designers, architects, and builders either neglect their Google Business Profile or never claim it at all. That’s a missed opportunity, especially when word-of-mouth referrals are increasingly happening online.
A dynamic Google Business Profile is essential for local visibility. It’s often the first thing potential clients see when they search for services like yours.
This post covers the four most common mistakes that design and building professionals make with their Google Business Profile—and exactly how to fix them.
You never even set up a Google Business Profile.
You can’t win if you don’t show up. Many businesses are so focused on serving clients that they never set up a profile. Where’s your online credibility?
Here’s why it matters.
If you’re not on Google Business, then you’re not showing up on Google Maps. You’re not appearing in local searches or in “near me” queries.
Without a GBP, it doesn’t matter how good your work is. People will simply not be able to find you if they’re searching for a “home remodeler near me” or “architect in [city].”
- You’re invisible in local search results.
- Competitors who do have a profile will show up above you
- Prospects might assume that you’re not established or credible.
So, fix it. Set up the profile first, and then improve it later.
- Claim or create your GBP at google.com/business.
- Use your exact business name, address, and phone number (NAP) everywhere you appear online.
- Choose the proper category (e.g., “Architect,” “Interior Designer,” “General Contractor”).
You set up a profile, but it’s incomplete
You took one step, but stopped before the finish line. An incomplete profile looks bad to Google (it shows you’re not active) and it looks bad to clients (are you incompetent or just unaware?).
Google gave you a toolbox—use all of it.
Honestly, Google has made it incredibly easy for business owners to rank locally. You just need to fill in the profile to completion.
Here are common oversights:
- Missing business hours
- No business description
- No website or service list
- No service area defined
- Incorrect or outdated contact info
Spend the time. If your profile is incomplete, Google is less likely to feature your business in the local “3-pack.”
Be strategic. This is a chance to communicate your style, approach, and specialties. GBP optimization is a marketing specialty of ours—reach out, if you’re interested.
It’s equally key to keep your profile updated. If you move locations, change hours, or offer new services, edit your GBP.
You’re not asking for reviews
Reviews show up on your Google Business Profile. Well, if you have reviews, they’ll appear.
You know you need reviews. Online reviews are today’s word of mouth. A strong review profile helps you build trust, improve rankings, and stand out from competitors who have few or no reviews.
If you’re not actively asking for reviews at your GBP page, you’re behind.
Let’s spell it out.
- No reviews means you fall behind competitors with more stars and more testimonials.
- Even if clients love you, others won’t know it.
- Google has fewer signals of customer satisfaction, so it ranks you lower.
Luckily, this is an easy fix, especially for design and building professionals.
Just build the review request into your follow-up process. When you wrap up a successful project, reach out to the client and include a direct link to your GBP via email or text.
Don’t focus on getting a ton all at once. In fact, one or two reviews every month are better than 10 in a single day. Slow, steady growth looks more organic and helps your ranking long term.
Final tip: Respond to reviews. This shows you’re engaged online and responsive to clients.
Failing to post photos or project updates
This is critical! Your business is visual. So, your online profile should be, too.
Your work speaks for itself—but only if people can see it.
Whether you’re designing interiors, restoring buildings, or managing new builds, you need high-quality photos to show off your skill. Without a portfolio, how are prospects supposed to trust your work? It’s even more convincing if your former clients are posting their own photos of your work.
There are two rules here: 1) Photos must be high-quality, and 2) Photos should be current.
Once again, we’re aiming to please both real people and the Google bots here. Google prioritizes businesses that post fresh content.
If you find yourself getting stuck on the quality of the photos, take a deep breath and commit to sharing something. The “Posts” feature of a GBP allows you to share news, insights, milestones, and more casual content. Try some before/after or behind-the-scenes content.
Photos humanize your business and earn trust from prospective clients.
Review and next steps
A strong Google Business Profile is non-negotiable in this digital landscape. It’s how local clients find you, trust you, and choose you.
Here’s a quick recap of what not to do:
- Don’t ignore GBP altogether.
- Don’t leave your profile half-filled.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for reviews.
- Don’t keep your best work hidden.
Fixing even one of these issues can improve your visibility. Fixing all four? That’s how you create a steady pipeline of qualified, local leads.
Boost your online visibility, in ways big and small. Book a free consultation and let’s lay the foundation.