When someone nearby searches for what you do, Google often shows a map with a few businesses at the top before any websites. Those listings come from Google Business Profile. For many local businesses, it brings in more calls than the website itself.
Step 1: Claim or create your profile
Search for your business name on Google. If a profile already exists, claim it. If not, create one at Google’s Business Profile site. You’ll need to verify that you own the business, usually by phone, email, video, or postcard.
Step 2: Pick the right primary category
Your primary category is one of the strongest signals Google uses to decide which searches you show up for. Choose the most specific category that describes your main service, then add secondary categories for other services you offer.
Step 3: Set your service area or address
If customers come to you, show your address. If you travel to customers, set a service area listing the towns and counties you serve, and hide your street address if you work from home.
Step 4: Fill out everything
- Hours, including holiday hours
- Phone number and website link
- A clear description of what you do and where
- Your services, each with a short description
- Photos of your work, your team, and your location or vehicles
Complete profiles tend to perform better, and they help customers decide to call you instead of the next listing.
Step 5: Keep it active
- Post updates, offers, or photos regularly
- Answer questions people ask on your profile
- Respond to every review, good or bad, politely and briefly
- Update hours and services whenever they change
Make your website match
Your business name, address, and phone number should match exactly between your profile and your website. Your website should also have a clear page for each service you list on your profile. The two work together.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating and managing a Google Business Profile is free.
Why isn’t my business showing up on the map?
Common causes are an unverified profile, the wrong primary category, an incomplete profile, or strong competition nearby. Distance from the person searching also matters.
Can I have a profile if I work from home?
Yes. Set it up as a service-area business and hide your home address.
Want a second opinion on yours?
Send me your business name and town through the free profile check and I’ll point out anything I’d change. More on local SEO here.