Did you know that businesses with updated and consistent images on their Google profiles are 42% more likely to be considered reputable by consumers? according to Think With Google.
Updating your Google Business Profile Picture is an essential task to keep your online presence fresh and appealing. Whether you’re refreshing your brand image or just updating an outdated photo, having an up-to-date profile picture can significantly impact how potential customers perceive your business.
This guide by UpLink SEO, your affordable SEO company in London, will walk you through the process of changing your Google Business Profile Image while also offering tips to optimise it for better visibility on Google Search and Maps.
Table of Contents:
Why Your Google Business Profile Picture Matters
Your Google Business Profile Picture is often the first thing potential customers see when they search for your business on Google. It appears in your Google My Business Profile, Google Maps, and even in Google Search results. A well-chosen image can convey professionalism, build trust, and help you stand out among competitors.
Having an optimised and professional Google Business Image can also improve your chances of being featured in Google Knowledge Graph or even in Google's new Search Generative Experience (SGE) results.
These platforms increasingly rely on visuals to provide users with quick, informative snapshots of businesses, making your profile picture more important than ever.
Steps to Change Your Google Business Profile Picture
Access Your Google Business Profile Manager
Start by logging into your Google Business Profile Manager. You can do this by visiting google.com/business and clicking the "Sign in" button.
Select the business profile you wish to manage from the list.
Navigate to the Photo Section
Once you're in the dashboard, click on the “Photos” tab located on the left-hand side of the screen.
Here, you’ll see options to upload a new profile picture or manage existing photos.
Upload Your New Profile Picture
Click on the “Profile Photo” section to update your current picture.
Choose an image from your computer that meets Google's recommended size and format (usually 250 x 250 pixels in JPG or PNG format).
Drag and drop the photo or click the upload button to select the image file.
Review and Save
After uploading, you’ll have the option to crop or adjust the image. Ensure that your business name and any critical information are visible and centred.
Once satisfied, click the "Save" button to finalise your changes.
Check the Update
Google may take a few minutes to process the change. Refresh your business profile page or check your business listing in Google Search to see the updated profile picture.
Optimising Your Google Business Profile Image for SEO
Choose the Right Image
Selecting the right image is crucial. It should represent your brand clearly and professionally. Avoid using low-resolution or poorly lit photos.
A high-quality image that is well-composed will not only look better but also convey trustworthiness.
Maintain Proper Size and Format
Google recommends a profile picture size of 250 x 250 pixels. Make sure your image is in either JPG or PNG format and does not exceed 10MB.
This ensures compatibility and quality across all devices.
Use Structured Data
Incorporating structured data, such as schema markup, on your website can help Google understand and index your images better.
This can be particularly useful for businesses looking to appear in Google Knowledge Graph or SGE results.
Enhance Trust Signals
Your profile picture can act as a trust signal for potential customers.
Include recognisable elements of your brand, such as your logo, storefront, or a professional headshot if you’re a service-based business. The more your profile picture aligns with the rest of your branding, the better.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Profile Picture Not Updating
If your new profile picture doesn’t appear immediately, it could be due to several factors:
File Format and Size: Ensure the image meets Google's specifications.
Google Account Issues: Make sure you're logged into the correct account with the necessary permissions.
Content Violations: Check if your image violates any of Google’s content guidelines.
If problems persist, consider contacting Google Support for assistance.
Removing Unwanted Images
To delete an inappropriate or outdated photo from your profile:
Go to the “Photos” section in your Google Business Profile Manager.
Select the image you wish to remove and click the trash can icon.
Confirm the deletion when prompted.
If the image was uploaded by another user, you can flag it for review by Google, although it may take some time for the image to be removed.
Making the Most of Your Google Business Profile Picture
Align with Google's Latest Features
Google's Search Generative Experience and Google Knowledge Graph increasingly influence how businesses are presented online. By aligning your profile picture with Google's best practices, you can improve your visibility and appeal in these features.
Use Supporting Visuals
Consider adding additional images to your Google Business Profile that showcase your products, services, or business environment. These supporting visuals can enhance your profile and provide potential customers with a more comprehensive view of your business.
Regular Updates
Keep your profile picture updated to reflect any changes in branding or business focus.
Regular updates also signal to Google that your business is active, which can positively impact your ranking in local searches.
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your Google Business Profile Picture not only looks great but also works hard to attract and engage potential customers. A well-optimised profile image is a simple yet effective way to improve your online presence and stand out in the crowded digital marketplace.
For more information and free advice, contact our SEO company in East London today at hello@uplinkseo.com or 020 7183 5137.
Address: 128 City Rd, London EC1V 2NX
Commentaires