--- title: "How To Win On Google Places – 7 Tips | Virtual Innovation" description: "There’s no such thing as being ‘too busy’ when you run your own business. Even when it feels like we have too much" canonical: "https://virtualinnovation.co.nz/google-places/" language: en-NZ --- [Skip to content](#main-content) On this page Quick answer There’s no such thing as being ‘too busy’ when you run your own business. Even when it feels like we have too much ![How To Win On Google Places – 7 Tips article image for Virtual Innovation](/blog-images/google-places.png) How To Win On Google Places – 7 Tips article image for Virtual Innovation ## Table of Contents ### Are You Using Google Places Effectively? Many New Zealand business owners are either unaware of **Google Places** or aren’t using it to its full potential. In this article and accompanying video, we walk you through the most important steps to **get found on Google** and stand out locally. --- ### Why Google Places is Essential for Local Businesses ![Optimised Google Places business profile screenshot](/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Google-My-Business-listing-thum.jpg-1.webp "Web Design Image") If you’re a local business offering products or services, **[Google Places](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google%5FMaps)** is a must-have tool. It’s essentially a free listing on **the world’s most powerful local search directory**, and the people who find you here are often ready to buy. Let that sink in: **9 out of 10 people who search locally are active customers.** --- ### Is Google Places Really Free? Yes, **Google Places** is free to set up—but like anything, it requires time and attention. You’ll need to: - Keep your business information accurate - Post regular updates and offers - Collect reviews from satisfied customers - Upload photos and videos - Build backlinks to your listing These steps help Google trust your business and **rank your listing higher** in local search results. --- ## 7 Expert Tips to Optimise Your Google Places Listing ### **1\. Get Your Business Details Right** Ensure your business name, phone number, and address are accurate and consistent across all platforms. This is crucial for **local SEO** and to avoid confusing potential customers. Don’t keyword-stuff your business name—Google penalises that. --- ### **2\. Choose the Right Categories** When setting up your **Google Places listing**, use all five category slots. The first two may be set automatically, but the remaining three allow you to customise based on relevant services. Choose categories that your target audience actually searches for. **Example:** Instead of just “Writer,” go with “Website Copywriter” or “SEO Content Writer.” --- ### **3\. Write a Powerful Business Description** Your business description should clearly outline: - What you do - Why you’re different - Benefits of choosing you - Awards, accreditations, or certifications Use keywords naturally throughout your copy to boost your visibility on **Google Places**. --- ### **4\. Detail Your Services** List each service in detail. This helps customers and Google understand your offerings. **Bad:** Landscaping **Good:** Landscaping – Garden Design, Lawn Mowing, Tree Removal, Path Installation --- ### **5\. Add Photos and Videos** **Google loves rich media.** Listings with images and videos rank better and convert more visitors. Include: - Team photos - Office/storefront images - Product/service action shots - Case study or testimonial videos --- ### **6\. Use Google Posts to Stay Active** You can now publish posts directly on your **Google Places listing**. These posts show when people search for your business and can include: - Blog articles - Special offers - Events - Product highlights Aim to post once a month (or more). It’s free and boosts your activity score with Google. --- ### **7\. Collect Google Reviews Regularly** Reviews on Google Places not only help your listing rank better—they also build trust instantly. Encourage happy clients to leave a review right after completing a job. Try to get at least **10+ Google Reviews** quickly to show you’re a trusted local business. --- ## Final Thoughts: Get Found on Google Places Don’t wait—**optimising your Google Places listing** can be one of the highest-ROI activities for your local business. If you’d like help improving your listing, we know a pro we call the **Google Whisperer**—just get in touch. Need a hand? ## Let’s make your website work harder. Tell us what is slow, clunky or costing you leads. We will show you a practical next step. [Book an intro call ](https://go.virtualinnovation.co.nz/widget/bookings/discovery-call-vi)