You wouldn’t let your storefront collect cobwebs, right?

Then why is your Google Business Profile (GBP) still rocking that blurry photo from 2019, zero reviews, and opening hours that say “closed today” when you’re very much open?

Whether you're a realtor, insurance agent, mortgage broker, or local business owner—your GBP is your digital front door. And guess what? People are judging it. Fast.

Let’s fix it. Here's your no-fluff, tip-packed guide to GBP greatness.

Still unclaimed? C’mon. That’s like leaving your keys in the door overnight. Head to google.com/business, claim your listing, and verify it.

Add high-quality, real-life photos of:
- You (smiling helps!)
- Your office or location
- Happy clients (with permission)
- Behind-the-scenes moments

Pro Tip: Google favors profiles with frequent photo updates. Upload weekly = more visibility.

This isn’t the “About Me” section on MySpace. Write something clear and keyword-rich:
“Helping Long Island homeowners, buyers, and families with top-tier real estate service since 2015. Specializing in first-time home buyers and downsizers.”

Don’t just list one ZIP code. Expand to the areas you actually work in. Google shows you in more searches when your territory is dialed in.

It seems minor—but Google uses this to verify if your business is active. And nothing turns off a potential client like a "Closed Now" message when you’re open.

Closed a deal? Ask.
Saved a client on their insurance premium? Ask.
Got someone approved for a mortgage? Yup—ask.

Automate it if you can (shameless plug: I can help with that).

Good, bad, or ugly—respond with kindness and keywords.
“Thanks John, glad we could help with your home search in Jericho!”

Google loves engagement. Clients love seeing you care.

Just like Facebook—but for Google. Promote events, blog posts, FAQs, or client wins. Posts = activity = rankings boost.

Send folks straight to:
- A contact form
- Your calendar
- A free consultation landing page

Less clicks = more leads.

NAP (Name, Address, Phone) should be identical everywhere. Even a small typo can mess with Google’s trust in your biz.

- Post new listings as updates weekly

- Use phrases like "homes for sale in [your area]"

- Link your Home Valuation or Buyer Guide

- Showcase client savings stories

- Mention types of insurance clearly (Auto, Home, Life)

- Use “Get a Quote” as your CTA

- Add posts about current rates, approval tips, and success stories

- Be clear on “First-Time Buyer” help

- Use calculators or pre-approval links

- Add menus, services, or product lists

- Promote seasonal events or specials

- Use photos of your team and behind-the-scenes shots

Your GBP is free—but it ain’t “set it and forget it.”
It’s alive. It breathes. And when it’s optimized?
It works—like a 24/7 referral machine.

If you’re thinking:
“Dang, I should probably check mine now…”

Good. Because I made it super easy for you.

(Yes, it’s free. No, I’m not gonna spam you. I’m not that guy.)

Let’s clean up that digital curb appeal and make sure people find you—and trust you—before they ever pick up the phone.

You in?

Catch you on the SERPs,
—Auggie 😎

Let’s cut to the chase. This newsletter is designed to make your life easier, your marketing more effective, and your business more profitable. I’m not just giving you tips from a distance. I’m living it—as a realtor, marketing expert, and consultant. I feel your pain because I’ve been in your shoes. And now I’m here to help you win.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for Ask8 Strategies, Ask Auggie Smarts and let’s turn those leads into clients, simplify your marketing, and give your business the boost it deserves. Plus, I promise I’ll keep it fun. No boring corporate stuff—just real talk, real strategies, and maybe even a dad joke or two.

Lastly, you will always see me sign off with the same statement, which is at the core of who I am.