The importance of adding photos to your Google Business listing

When someone searches for a business on Google, the first thing they see isn't your website or social media: it's your Google Business listing. And within that listing, photos play a key role in building trust, attracting customers, and standing out from the competition. Are you taking full advantage of its potential?

Why are photos so important in Google Business?

Images are the first thing that catches a user's attention. According to Google, profiles with photos receive 42% more requests for directions on Maps and 35% more clicks to the website than those without images. In a competitive digital environment, these percentages can make the difference between attracting or losing a customer.

Pictures:

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• Humanise your business: Showing your team or your facilities helps to create a connection with the customer.
• They show what you offer: Whether it's food, products, services, or results, a picture is worth a thousand words.
• Improve your local ranking: Google rewards complete and up-to-date profiles, including quality and up-to-date photos.

Additionally, images also influence how Google interprets your business. Properly tagged photos (with appropriate metadata and descriptions) can improve your relevance and visibility in specific searches, resulting in more visits and conversions.

What kind of photos should you upload?

Not all photos are suitable. Images should be relevant, authentic, and aligned with your brand. Here are some recommendations:

1. Profile photo: This is the first image the user will see. Make sure it's clear and professional.
2. Cover photo: Represents the essence of your business. It can be your location, your star product, or a powerful image that summarizes your value proposition.
3. Photos of the interior and exterior of the business: Especially if you have a physical store, showing the space builds trust.
4. Products or services: If you sell products, take attractive photos of them. If you sell services, show the before and after, or the work process.
5. Products or servicesIf you sell products, take attractive photos of them. If you sell services, show the before and after, or the work process.
6. Satisfied customers (with their permission): Nothing builds trust like seeing other people happy with your brand.
7. Events and activities: If you participate in fairs, workshops, or local events, documenting them with photos reinforces your involvement and closeness to the community.

Good practices when uploading photos to your profile

• Quality first: Use sharp, well-lit, high-resolution photos.
• Constant Updates: Uploading new photos frequently tells Google that your business is active.
• Avoid excessive filters: Naturalness conveys more confidence.
• Include contextual information: You can add titles or descriptions to reinforce your message.
• Appropriate format: Google recommends images in JPG or PNG format, with a size between 10 KB and 5 MB, a minimum resolution of 720 px by 720 px, and an aspect ratio of 4:3 or 16:9.

Also, make sure to maintain visual consistency with your brand identity. Use the same colors, style, and tone as on your social media and website. This consistency strengthens your branding and makes you more recognizable.

How photos influence purchasing decisions

The purchasing decision isn't based solely on what you say, but on what the customer perceives. A listing with well-curated photos communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and authenticity. This is especially important in businesses where image is key: restaurants, hair salons, beauty salons, brick-and-mortar stores, accommodations, etc.

Furthermore, in highly competitive sectors, having an optimized photo gallery can be the differentiating factor that tips the balance in your favor. Users want to know what they're going to find before visiting or purchasing from you. If you don't show it, your competition will.

90% of consumers consult reviews and photos before making a decision. And while opinions are key, images reinforce that message and provide a visual dimension that words can't achieve. Therefore, taking care of this aspect is not only advisable: it's essential.

Automate your visibility strategy with smart tools

Keeping your Google Business Profile up-to-date and attractive can be time-consuming, but today's technology solutions simplify the process. Tools like wireply, for example, allow you to more efficiently manage your digital presence, including updating and optimizing your Google Profile.

With wiReply, you can schedule posts, respond to reviews, and ensure your profile stands out from the crowd. Plus, its focus on artificial intelligence helps you save time and maintain a consistent image across all your platforms. You can even receive alerts when there are changes to your profile or when someone leaves an unanswered review, so you don't miss any opportunity to make a good impression.

Conclusion

Adding photos to your Google Business listing isn't an option: it's a necessity if you want to stand out online. The right images build trust, increase your business's visibility, and can be the boost you need to attract more customers.

Don't underestimate the power of a good image. Take care of your visual presence as part of your local marketing strategy and make your Google Business profile a true reflection of the quality of what you offer. And if you want to start improving your visibility in an easy and professional way, try wiReply for free. We'll help you put your best foot forward on Google... and much more.