Do you remember when your church’s website was considered the new front door? Today, that’s no longer the case. Now, your Google Business Profile has become the window into which people peer before they consider approaching your physical location. In this post, we’ll delve into strategies you can use with your Google Business Profile to more effectively promote church growth.
Embracing the New Front Door
In the digital age, the dynamics of church outreach have shifted. Your church’s online presence, particularly your Google Business Profile, has become a significant factor in shaping first impressions and attracting visitors. Here’s how you can leverage this tool to its fullest potential.
Why Invest in Your Google Business Profile?
Your Google Business Profile acts as an essential bridge between your church and potential attendees. Here are a few key reasons why it’s worth investing time and effort into enhancing it:
First Impressions Matter
Your profile creates the initial perception of your church for those who find you through Google search, Google Maps, or Google Local Finder.
Boost Local SEO
Actively utilizing your profile can enhance your local search engine optimization (SEO), making it easier for people in your area to find you.
Four Steps to Keeping Your Google Business Profile Active
1. Posting Updated Photos and Videos: Making a Positive Visual Impact
Keeping your profile visually appealing and accurate is crucial. Regularly updating photos and videos will ensure they align with your church’s message and intended audience and accurately portray your community.
Curate the Narrative
Review and curate the photos on your profile. Remove any irrelevant or inappropriate images and ensure they represent your church positively.
Use Engaging Videos
Incorporate short videos, such as welcome messages or sermon highlights, to offer viewers a glimpse into your church’s atmosphere.
2. Asking for Reviews: Building Credibility and Trust
Positive reviews on your Google Business Profile can significantly influence potential attendees’ decisions. Actively encouraging members to leave reviews and responding thoughtfully to each one will foster connections and grow your community.
Request Reviews
Invite churchgoers to leave reviews, emphasizing that their feedback helps others find their spiritual home.
Response Engagement
Respond to content-rich reviews by adding relevant links to your website. This provides more information on the mentioned aspects, encouraging readers to explore further.
3. Creating Posts: Keeping Your Profile Fresh
Regularly posting on your Google Business Profile showcases your church’s activities, events, and updates, giving potential attendees insights into your church community.
Repurposing Content
Repurpose engaging social media posts as Google Business Profile updates to maintain fresh content.
Enhanced Searchability
Events posted on your profile become searchable, increasing your church’s visibility to those looking for specific types of gatherings.
4. Creating Events: Attracting Attendees and Engaging Community
Posting events on your Google Business Profile not only informs potential visitors but also increases your profile’s searchability through relevant event searches.
Event Details
Post relevant information about events, including descriptions, dates, times, and buttons for more information.
SEO Advantage
Events posted on your profile enhance local SEO and attract attendees searching for similar gatherings.
Next Steps to Navigating the Digital Landscape
Your Google Business Profile serves as a potent tool to connect with people seeking a spiritual community. Regularly updating photos, asking for reviews, creating engaging posts, and posting events contribute to your church’s growth and its impact on your local community. By embracing these practices, your church can navigate the digital landscape and make a lasting impression on those who seek a new spiritual home. For more information about reaching people in your community online, watch our recent podcast episode on this topic or book a call with one of our Missional Marketing coaches!