
Local Search & Google Business Profile
Learn how to optimise your Google Business Profile and dominate local search results to attract more nearby visitors and direct bookings.

1 hour
+ exercises and implementationSelf-paced
with support
Course certificate
upon completion
Suitable from
All levels levelLocal Search & Google Business Profile
Learn how to optimise your Google Business Profile and dominate local search results to attract more nearby visitors and direct bookings.
1 hour
+ exercises and implementationSelf-paced
with support
Course certificate
upon completion
Suitable from
All levels levelIf someone uses Google search to seek out service like yours in your area, how likely is it that they will see your business among the search results?
Local search marketing is a powerful strategy to connect with customers who are actively looking to book or buy. In fact, 88% of consumers who use their smartphone to conduct a local search via google will visit a related store within a week (Source: Think With Google).
Your Google Business Profile (previously called Google My Business) is the most important element of a local search strategy. There are many things you can do to ensure that this valuable and free digital business asset is performing well on your behalf.
The Local Search & Google Business Profile course is packed with practical content designed to give you the direction and knowledge needed to make the best use of your Google Business Profile listing and what you need to do to rank higher in local search results.
Local search marketing is a powerful strategy to connect with customers who are actively looking to book or buy. In fact, 88% of consumers who use their smartphone to conduct a local search via google will visit a related store within a week (Source: Think With Google).
Your Google Business Profile (previously called Google My Business) is the most important element of a local search strategy. There are many things you can do to ensure that this valuable and free digital business asset is performing well on your behalf.
The Local Search & Google Business Profile course is packed with practical content designed to give you the direction and knowledge needed to make the best use of your Google Business Profile listing and what you need to do to rank higher in local search results.
Who is this course for?
This course is for tourism businesses who want to stand out in local search results and get found by travellers when it matters most. Whether you run tours, accommodation, or an experience-based business, this course will show you how to optimise your Google Business Profile and boost your visibility on Google Maps and Search. Perfect for small and medium operators who want to attract more direct bookings from people already looking for what they offer — without relying on paid ads.
Course Outline
- Local search | fundamentalsThis lesson explains what local search is and why it’s essential for tourism businesses. You’ll learn how Google Business Profiles power visibility in local results — especially the coveted Local Pack — and how AI-driven search tools like Google’s SGE make a complete, optimised profile more important than ever.
- Local search | strategyThis lesson covers essential tactics to optimise your Google Business Profile and improve your local search visibility. You’ll learn how to verify your listing, align your online presence, and integrate reviews and “Things to do” listings into your digital strategy. It’s about making your business easier to find and trust—right where people are searching.
- Local search | tacticsThis lesson shows you how to actively improve your Google Business Profile to boost visibility and conversions. You’ll learn the must-haves for your listing, the key ranking factors Google uses (like reviews and NAP consistency), and practical actions like adding Q&As, updating photos, and posting regular updates to stay relevant in local search results.
Course topics
- Importance of local search marketing
- Likelihood of appearing in local search results
- Connecting with customers actively looking to book or buy
- Google Business Profile as a crucial element of local search strategy
- Ensuring your Google Business Profile performs well
- Practical strategies for optimising your Google Business Profile
- Demystifying local search
- User experience of Google Search and Maps
- Things to do and hotel bookings
- Google Business Profile checklist
Meet your instructor
Fabienne W
Fabienne Wintle is Chief Digital Strategist and is an advocate for digital self-sufficiency, having empowered thousands of small businesses with the knowledge and tools required to make a living from tourism. Her special blend of digital know-how, tourism knowledge, coaching skills and a natural gift for communication make her a sought-after consultant, workshop facilitator and speaker. She lives on Australia's Southern Great Barrier Reef in Agnes Water, Queensland where she volunteers her time to help local businesses use the internet.
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FAQs
What does each course include?
Each course includes bite-sized lessons written in plain English, practical examples, templates, downloads, and real-world activities tailored to tourism businesses. Many courses also include handouts and bonus resources to help you take action straight away.
Who are the courses designed for?
They’re built for independent tourism businesses who don’t have the time, budget, or in-house expertise to keep up with digital trends. Whether you’re a solo operator or have a small team, you’ll find practical advice you can use immediately.
Who creates the courses?
Our courses are created by industry experts Fabienne Wintle and Liz Ward — both recognised digital strategists with decades of experience in tourism and small business development. They’ve worked directly with thousands of operators and are passionate about making digital skills accessible.
Are the courses up to date?
Yes — we continuously update our courses to reflect the latest changes in technology, consumer behaviour, and best practices. You’ll never be stuck with outdated tactics.
Are these courses used in official tourism programs?
Yes! Our training is delivered as part of digital upskilling programs across Australia, including initiatives by state and local tourism organisations. We’re trusted partners of industry leaders like TEQ, DNSW, and Tourism Australia, helping operators nationwide build sustainable, digital-first businesses.
How long will it take to complete a course?
Most courses take between 1 to 3 hours depending on the topic and how deep you dive into the activities. You can go at your own pace and revisit them any time.
What if I get stuck?
If you’re on a Digital Assistance Plan, help is just a click away — you can reach out via our tourism tech hotline or ask questions during the live fortnightly sessions. We’re here to support you, not just sell you a course.
Is this course included in the Digital Assistance Plans?
Yes — all of our individual courses are included in our Digital Assistance Plans. Instead of purchasing just one course, you can access every course, template, tool, and benefit we offer by joining a plan.
What’s the difference between buying a single course and joining a plan?
Buying a single course gives you access to just that course. But our Digital Assistance Plans give you everything — all current and future courses, our tourism tech hotline, fortnightly live tech sessions, templates, and more — for a better price.
Can I upgrade to a plan after buying a course?
Absolutely. If you decide to join a plan after purchasing a course, we’ll credit your course fee toward your plan — just contact us and we’ll organise it for you.
What kind of support do I get with a Digital Assistance Plan?
You’ll get access to our tourism tech hotline (like roadside assistance for your digital tools), fortnightly live sessions, and tailored advice to help you apply what you’ve learned in your own business.