Maximizing Engagement with Google Business Profile Posts & Photos
Portland is full of amazing local businesses—quirky cafés, vintage shops, cozy bookstores, craft breweries—and each one has its own personality. But in today’s world, that personality has to shine online as well as in person. Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is usually the first thing someone sees when they look you up, whether they’re a neighbor searching on Google Maps or a visitor in town for the weekend. That little box with your name, hours, photos, and updates is often your very first impression.
And just like a great window display can make someone stop and peek inside your shop, a well-kept GBP can make someone click, call, or visit. At Breakthrough Local, as a trusted
local SEO company in Portland, we’ve seen that when a profile is full of fresh posts, great photos, and even a virtual tour, customers feel like they already know the business before they walk in.
Why Your Google Business Profile Matters
Think of your profile like the front porch of your business. Would you want it to look empty and neglected, or inviting and lively? A profile that’s regularly updated feels welcoming and trustworthy. It tells people, “Yes, we’re open, we’re active, and we’d love to see you.”
Google notices, too. Businesses that post updates and add photos regularly tend to show up more in search results. That means your effort not only makes you look good but can actually help you get found more often.
Creating Posts People Actually Care About
GBP posts are like little conversations you get to have with potential customers. They can answer questions, share news, and even inspire someone to stop by.
1. Talk to Your People
Picture the person you want to reach. Are they a Portland foodie looking for a weekend brunch spot? A parent searching for after-school programs? A dog owner who wants the best groomer for their pup?
Write like you’re talking directly to them. Keep it friendly, keep it helpful. A café might post, “We just baked fresh marionberry scones, stop by before they’re gone!” A yoga studio might share, “Join our sunset class tonight on the patio.” These posts feel personal and real.
2. Choose the Right Kind of Post
Each post type has a job to do:
- What’s New – Use this for quick updates, like new services or staff introductions.
- Events – Promote your trivia night, live music, or community workshop with dates and times.
- Offers – Perfect for discounts or specials. “Show this post for 10% off!”
- Products – Show off your best-sellers with a beautiful photo and description.
Choosing the right type helps customers find what they’re looking for faster.
3. Make the Next Step Easy
Don’t leave people guessing what to do. Google’s buttons—Call Now,
Learn More,
Book—are there to guide them. If you want them to visit, say so. If you want them to order online, make the link clear.
4. Keep It Fresh
An old, outdated post can make it look like nothing’s happening at your business. Aim for weekly updates, even if they’re simple. A single photo and a few friendly words can keep your profile lively.
5. Use Images Whenever You Can
Words are good, but pictures stop the scroll. Snap a quick photo of a new product, a happy customer (with permission), or the view from your shop window on a sunny day. These little glimpses bring your business to life.
Telling Your Story with Photos and Videos
When someone scrolls through your photos, they should get a feel for what it’s like to actually be there. Your visuals should feel warm, real, and inviting.
1. Show Your Best Side
Good lighting and clear images make a world of difference. Take the time to straighten things up before snapping a picture, or use natural light near a window. Professional photos are great, but even a phone can capture beautiful images if you take care.
2. Put Faces Front and Center
People connect with people. Show your team smiling, helping customers, or doing what they love. It makes your business feel friendly and approachable.
Consistency Is Key
A profile full of fresh posts and updated photos shows customers that you care. It also shows Google that your business is active, which can help your visibility. The challenge is keeping it up while you’re busy running your business.
That’s where we come in. At Breakthrough Local, we take care of the posts, the photos, the strategy, and the updates so you can focus on doing what you do best. We make sure your profile keeps working for you every single day.
Let’s Make Your Profile Work Harder
If your Google Business Profile has been sitting untouched, or if it just doesn’t reflect how great your business really is—you’re missing out on opportunities. Every search could be a new customer.
Learn more about our Google Business Profile management services.
Let’s turn your profile into one of the most powerful tools for growing your business.
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