Did you know 84% of local searches are done through mobile, according to RedLocal SEO’s research?

This is why it’s crucial for potential customers to find your business online and quickly understand what you offer, especially on their smartphones.

If you own a small business or are a solopreneur, you know how important it is to be visible online.

However, many business owners spend too much time and effort on their website or social media, overlooking one of the most effective and free ways to improve visibility—Google Business Profile and Bing Places for Business.

These platforms help customers quickly and easily find your business when searching on Google or Bing, especially on mobile devices, where quick, accurate information matters most.

Optimizing your business listing is not just about appearing in search results—it also helps you attract more customers, manage your online reputation, and improve your SEO.

Why Business Listings Matter for SEO

Search engines aim to provide users with the most relevant and accurate information. When someone searches for “best coffee shop near me” or “affordable auto repair open now,” search engines pull information from business listings to determine the best results.

Here’s why an optimized business listing benefits your SEO:

Improves Local SEO Rankings – Businesses with complete and updated listings are more likely to appear in local search results, including Google Maps.
Increases Website Traffic – A well-maintained listing links to your website, making it easier for potential customers to learn more about your services.
Boosts Trust and Credibility – Verified listings with updated business details, reviews, and photos signal to both search engines and customers that your business is legitimate.

With more people searching on the go, how do business listings keep you twelve steps ahead? Let’s dive in.

The Importance of Business Listings for Mobile Search

Mobile search has fundamentally changed the way people find businesses. More than ever, customers rely on their smartphones to look up nearby services, find directions, and make quick decisions on the go. Google reports that 76% of people who search for something nearby on their phone visit a business within a day, and 28% of those searches lead to a purchase.

Business listings play a massive role because mobile users expect fast, accurate, and easy-to-read information. They’re looking for:

Quick access to essential details – Most mobile users won’t click through multiple pages to find what they need. A well-optimized business listing puts your hours, location, and contact info right at their fingertips.
Click-to-call functionality – Many mobile searches result in direct calls to businesses. If your phone number isn’t listed or incorrect, you could miss valuable leads.
Instant navigation and directions – Google and Bing use business listings to power their map search features. If your location isn’t updated, customers may become frustrated—or end up at your competitor’s door.
Fast-loading content – Unlike full websites, which can sometimes load slowly on mobile, a Google Business Profile or Bing listing provides immediate, easy-to-read business information.

So, what should your business listing include to maximize visibility and customer engagement? Let’s break it down.

What to Include in Your Business Listing

To get the most out of your Google Business Profile or Bing Places for Business listing, make sure it includes these key details:

Business Name & Description – Keep it simple and customer-friendly. Use words your customers would use instead of industry jargon.
Business Hours – Keeping hours updated ensures customers know when to visit or call. Include special hours for holidays if applicable.
Phone Number & Website – Ensure customers can contact you easily. Having a website link also improves your SEO.
Categories & Attributes – Choose the right business category and add relevant attributes (e.g., “family-friendly,” “free Wi-Fi,” or “outdoor seating”).
Photos & Updates – High-quality images make your business more appealing. Posting updates about promotions, events, or service changes keeps your listing fresh.

An optimized listing doesn’t just help customers find you—it keeps them engaged. Here’s how.

The Connection Between Business Listings and Customer Engagement

A business listing is more than just an online directory—it’s also a tool for customer engagement and reputation management.

Reviews and Ratings – Encouraging satisfied customers to leave reviews helps build credibility. Responding to all positive and negative reviews shows that you care and are actively engaged with your customers.
Questions & Answers – Some platforms allow customers to ask public questions. Answering these quickly builds trust and shows that your business is responsive.
Regular Updates – Posting updates about new products, seasonal promotions, or business changes keeps customers informed and engaged.

Even with a great listing, little mistakes can limit its impact. Here’s what to watch out for.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a listing in place, businesses often make mistakes that limit their visibility and customer engagement. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Leaving Information Incomplete – Missing phone numbers, outdated hours, or lack of photos make listings less effective.
Ignoring Reviews – Not responding to reviews can make your business appear unengaged.
Using Too Much Jargon – Customers search in simple terms. If your description is too technical, you might not appear in relevant searches.

Now that you know what works (and what doesn’t), it’s time to put these strategies into action.

How to Get Started

If you haven’t claimed your Google Business Profile or Bing Places for Business, now is the time. It’s a free, powerful tool that increases your chances of being found by potential customers.

By keeping your listing updated, engaging with customers, and ensuring your information is complete, you can improve your SEO, attract more traffic, and build a strong online reputation.

Want more ways to boost your online presence? Check out our additional SEO resources for strategies for ranking higher in search results and driving more business.