Why Google Business Profiles Matter for Local Businesses

If you run a shop, farm stand, or service business in Luray or Page County, chances are your customers are finding you on Google before they ever visit your website. A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the listing that shows your business name, hours, reviews, and location right on Google Search and Google Maps.

When optimized properly, your profile can drive phone calls, website visits, and in-person traffic — often before someone even clicks on your site.

Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Profile

The first step is making sure you actually own and control your profile.

• Search for your business on Google.
• If you see your business listed, claim it through Google Business Manager.
• If it’s not listed, you can create a new profile for free.

Verification usually happens by postcard, phone, or email. Until you verify, you won’t be able to edit your listing.

Step 2: Add Accurate Business Information

Customers get frustrated if your hours, phone number, or address are wrong. Always make sure your profile shows:

• Correct hours (especially if you’re seasonal, like a farmers market vendor)
• Up-to-date phone number
• Physical address or service area (for contractors, plumbers, electricians, etc.)
• Website link so customers can learn more

Step 3: Use Local Photos and Videos

Profiles with photos get more clicks and calls. Share images of:

• Your storefront in downtown Luray
• Your products (like honey jars, produce, or handmade goods)
• Your work in action (a freshly painted house, a new deck, or a plumbing repair)
• Seasonal specials or events in the Shenandoah Valley

These visuals help customers trust your business before they even visit.

Step 4: Collect and Respond to Reviews

Reviews are one of the most powerful ways to build trust locally. Encourage happy customers to leave a quick Google review, and always respond — even to negative ones.

• Thank customers for positive feedback.
• Be polite and professional if you get a critical review.

Businesses that respond to reviews show they care, which builds credibility in the community.

Step 5: Post Updates to Stay Active

Google Business Profiles allow you to post updates, much like social media. This is perfect for:

• Special promotions at your farm stand
• Seasonal services (like snow removal or spring landscaping)
• Announcements about new products or store hours

Staying active signals to Google (and your customers) that your business is engaged and up to date.

The Local Advantage

For small businesses in Luray, Page County, and the Shenandoah Valley, an optimized Google Business Profile is one of the most affordable and effective marketing tools available. It helps you appear in “near me” searches, which is how most customers discover local shops and services.

Get Help Optimizing Your Profile

At Shenandoah Web Design, we help small businesses across Page County set up and optimize their Google Business Profiles so they get more calls, more clicks, and more local customers.

👉 Contact us today for help improving your local search visibility.

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