Facebook and Google Business Profile are both free, but they do different jobs. Google Business Profile gets you into the map results and “near me” searches on Google — the higher-intent channel for tradies. Facebook builds a following and shows recent jobs. Most tradies need both, alongside a website that ties them together.
The short version
Google Business Profile is where a customer looks when they've decided to search for a tradie right now — it powers the map pack and “[trade] near me” results. Facebook is where they look to check you're real and see recent work. Neither replaces a website; both work best pointing back to one.
| Google Business Profile | Facebook page | |
|---|---|---|
| Shows up in Google Maps / “near me” | Yes — this is its job | No |
| Shows up in general Google search | Yes, strongly | Rarely |
| Collects star reviews Google trusts | Yes | Separate review system |
| Good for showing recent jobs and photos | Limited | Yes |
| Staying in touch with past customers | No | Yes |
| You own and control it | You manage it, Google hosts it | No — the platform does |
| Cost | Free | Free |
Where Google Business Profile wins
It's the single biggest free lever for local search — it's what shows your business on the map when someone searches for your trade nearby, and it carries the star rating people trust most. See the full Google Business Profile setup guide for how to claim and optimise it.
Where a Facebook page wins
It's quick for posting finished jobs, it builds a following of past customers who might refer you again, and comments and shares work as informal social proof. It rarely helps you get found by someone who's never heard of you.
Best setup: use both, and add a website
Claim and complete your Google Business Profile first — it's the highest-intent channel. Keep a Facebook page running for recent jobs and referrals. Then point both at a website you own, which is what actually ranks for your services and turns a visit into a booked job.
See our full website vs Facebook page comparison for more on why a website is the piece neither platform replaces.
What a website adds
A website is the one asset you fully own — it ranks on Google for your trade and suburbs, and it works as a 24/7 quote form when Facebook messages and phone calls get missed. A 5-page site is $750 — our most popular — or start lean with a 3-page site for $500, both flat, live in 2 weeks, no lock-in. See pricing or get a free preview before you pay anything.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Google Business Profile if I already have a Facebook page?
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Yes. They reach different people. Google Business Profile is what shows up when someone searches your trade on Google Maps or “near me” — that's the highest-intent moment. A Facebook page doesn't appear there. Keep both.
Which one should I set up first?
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Google Business Profile. It's free, it powers local map results, and it's usually where a ready-to-book customer looks first. Add or keep a Facebook page alongside it for recent jobs and referrals.
Can I skip a website if I have both?
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You can start with just the free profiles, but neither fully replaces a website. A website is the asset you own outright, it ranks for your services beyond just “near me” searches, and it captures enquiries around the clock.