How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile Correctly

What it is and why it matters

A Google Business Profile is the free listing that appears on Google Search and Maps when someone looks for your business or a service you offer. For local customers it is often the first thing they see - before your website.

Create and verify

Sign in with a Google account, search for your business name on Google Business Profile and follow the steps. Google will ask you to verify that the business is real, usually by phone, email, video or a postcard. Complete verification before editing further.

Fill in every detail accurately

• Name: your real business name only - no keyword stuffing.
• Category: choose the primary category that best describes you, then add secondary ones.
• Address or service area: if customers do not visit you, you can hide the address and list the areas you serve.
• Phone, website and hours.
• Services and description in clear, honest language.
• Photos of your work, team or premises.

Reviews and posts

Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews and reply politely to all of them. Add updates, offers or projects as posts so the profile looks active.

Link it with your website

Add your website link, and make sure the website shows the same name and contact details. This consistency helps Google trust the listing.