Making Google Work for You

Jul 22

If you’re a small business owner, you probably already know that being visible online is crucial—but you might be overlooking one of the most powerful (and free!) tools available to you: your Google Business Profile.

In this week’s episode of Your Next Business Bestie, I sat down with Michelle Hoglan, founder of Top Hat Creative Marketing, to talk all things Google. Michelle is the person I send my clients to when Google Business Profiles get messy—and let’s be honest, they often do.

But this episode isn’t just about troubleshooting. It’s about opportunity.

Michelle’s Journey: From Corporate to Creative

Michelle shared how she went from corporate project management to running her own business alongside her husband, Brett. They’ve built Top Hat Creative Marketing into a boutique agency that helps small businesses—especially in healthcare and service industries—take control of their online presence.

What started with managing reviews has grown into a full suite of offerings, including profile optimization, team training, QR code strategies, and even video reviews and digital ads. (Yes, your five-star review can become scroll-stopping content.)

What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Google

Many business owners think their Google Business Profile is just a place for their hours and address—but Michelle is here to tell you it’s so much more:

✅ You can post events and updates
✅ You can link directly to partnerships and causes you support
✅ You can boost your SEO with strategic keywords
✅ You can flag or fight fake reviews—and yes, sometimes they can be removed
✅ You can (and should!) use your reviews as marketing collateral

And best of all? You don’t have to spend a dime to make the most of it.

“Work It and It’ll Work for You”

Michelle’s approach is simple but powerful: Show your Google profile some love, and it’ll show it right back. The more active and optimized your page is, the more likely you are to show up in searches—and that means more leads, more trust, and more business.

She even offers a free 20-minute audit if you want to see where your profile stands and what improvements can be made. (Details below!)

Favorite Quote from the Episode:

“Don’t be afraid of your Google Business Profile. Work it. Show it some love—and it will show you some love in return.”

Listen to the Episode

This episode is packed with wisdom—plus personal stories, laughs, and a reminder of why showing up (online and in life) matters. If you’ve been putting off working on your Google presence, now’s the time.

🎧 Listen now: Your Next Business Bestie - Episode with Michelle Hoglan