Jason’s Certification Plan

Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a professional Google Business Profile (GBP) manager or consultant:

1. Understand the Basics

• Objective: Understand what Google Business Profile is, its importance, and how businesses utilize it to attract customers.
• Resources:
  • Google My Business Help Center: This provides foundational knowledge straight from Google.
  • Local SEO Blogs & Forums: Moz’s Beginner’s Guide to SEO and Local Search Ranking Factors are great starting points.

2. Hands-on Experience

• Objective: Familiarize yourself with GBP’s interface, features, and functionalities.
• Action Steps:
  • Set Up a Profile: If you have a business or offer freelance services, set up your own GBP. If not, perhaps help a friend or a local business set up or optimize theirs.
  • Experiment: Play around with features like posts, photos, Q&A, reviews, and insights.

3. Advanced Learning

• Objective: Dive deeper into specific features and advanced GBP management techniques.
• Resources:
  • Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses in local SEO and GBP.
  • Webinars & Workshops: SEO professionals and agencies often conduct webinars. Follow industry leaders like Moz, SEMrush, and BrightLocal.

4. Specialize in GBP Features

• Objective: Deepen your knowledge in specific GBP areas.
• Action Steps:
  • Reputation Management: Learn how to effectively manage reviews, respond professionally, and create strategies to garner positive reviews.
  • Spam Listing Combat: Understand how to detect and report spammy competitors or fake listings.
  • Data Analysis: Master the Insights section of GBP to provide valuable feedback to businesses on performance.

5. Network with Professionals

• Objective: Build connections, learn from experiences, and stay updated with GBP changes.
• Action Steps:
  • Join Forums & Groups: Participate in platforms like the Local Search Forum, and GBP-centric Facebook groups.
  • Attend Conferences: Events like BrightonSEO, MozCon, and others often have tracks dedicated to local SEO and GBP.

6. Certification

• Objective: Gain a recognized certification to showcase your expertise.
• Action Steps:
  • Google’s own certifications: While Google doesn’t have a certification exclusively for GBP, the Google Ads certification can be highly relevant since it covers local advertising strategies.
  • Local SEO Certifications: Platforms like BrightLocal or SEMrush offer local SEO certifications which encompass GBP skills.

7. Continuous Learning

• Objective: GBP, like all Google products, evolves. Stay updated.
• Action Steps:
  • Subscribe to Newsletters & Blogs: SEO platforms like Search Engine Journal, Search Engine Land, and others regularly provide updates.
  • Participate in Community Discussions: Join Google’s own community forums. They’re valuable for problem-solving and understanding common challenges.

8. Building a Portfolio

• Objective: Showcase your skills and achievements.
• Action Steps:
  • Document Your Successes: Before-and-after data, client testimonials, and case studies are invaluable.
  • Online Presence: Build a professional website and possibly offer a blog with tips or insights on GBP management.

9. Launch Your Consultancy

• Objective: Start offering your services as a GBP consultant.
• Action Steps:
  • Offer Packages: From GBP setup to monthly management services, offer various packages catered to different business needs.
  • Network Locally: Start with local businesses in your area, offering to improve their online visibility.

10. Stay Ethical

• Objective: Uphold a high standard of integrity.
• Action Steps:
  • Stay Transparent: Always be honest with your clients about what can and can’t be achieved.
  • Avoid Black Hat Techniques: They might offer quick gains but can harm businesses in the long run.

Google Business Profile Masterclass