Choosing the Right Categories: A Key Component to Local SEO Success

Google Business Profile (GBP) is a powerful tool for helping local businesses show up in search results. But did you know that choosing the right categories can make or break your local rankings? Selecting the most relevant primary and additional categories can significantly impact how often potential customers find your business online.

In this blog, we’ll explore what GBP categories are, why they matter, and how you can optimize them to boost your visibility in local search.

What Are Google Business Profile Categories?

Categories in GBP describe what your business does. You can select one primary category and up to nine additional categories. These categories help Google match your business with search queries.

Example:
A bakery might use:

• Primary Category: Bakery.
• Additional Categories: Café, Dessert Shop, or Custom Cake Shop.

The primary category should reflect your main business activity, while additional categories allow you to expand your visibility for related services.

Why Choosing the Right Categories Matters

Relevance Equals Rankings

Google uses categories to understand your business. Accurate categories increase your chances of appearing in relevant searches.

Increased Visibility

Adding additional categories broadens your reach. For example, a gym that includes “Personal Trainer” as an additional category may attract clients searching for personalized fitness services.

Credibility

Correct categories align customer expectations with your services, increasing trust and reducing bounce rates.

How Additional Categories Impact Rankings

Studies like the one conducted by BrightLocal reveal that businesses using multiple relevant categories often rank higher and appear in more search results.

Broadening Search Matches

Including additional categories makes your business eligible for a wider range of searches. For instance, a florist with “Wedding Service” as an additional category might appear in search results for wedding planners.

Strategic Optimization

When selected thoughtfully, additional categories can capture niche markets without diluting your core focus.

How to Choose the Right Categories

Step 1: Research Competitors

Look at the categories top-ranking competitors use. Tools like BrightLocal or Google’s search bar can help.

Step 2: Explore Google’s Official List

Google provides a comprehensive list of GBP categories. Browse it to find the ones most relevant to your business.

Step 3: Prioritize Accuracy

Focus on categories that align directly with your offerings. Avoid the temptation to include unrelated categories.

Example:
For a landscaping business:

Good categories: Landscape Designer, Lawn Care Service.
Bad categories: Garden Supply Store (if you don’t sell supplies).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading Categories: Too many categories can confuse Google and your audience.
• Irrelevant Choices: Picking unrelated categories can hurt your credibility.
• Set-and-Forget Mentality: Review your categories regularly to ensure they reflect your current services.

Final Thoughts

Your GBP categories work in tandem with other SEO elements, such as reviews, backlinks, and localized content. Optimizing your categories is a foundational step to dominating local search. Choosing the right Google Business Profile categories is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to improve your local search visibility. Whether you’re setting up your profile for the first time or revisiting it for optimization, take the time to get your categories right.

Need help with your Google Business Profile? Learn more about our Google Business Profile Management Services, or contact us today for a free consultation!