When someone searches for a business like yours nearby, Google often shows a map with a few businesses on it before any websites. Those listings come from Google Business Profiles. A profile is free, and for a local business it's one of the most valuable things you can set up.
Before you start
Have these to hand and the whole thing goes quicker.
- Your business name, exactly as customers know it
- Your address, or the towns and areas you cover if you go to customers
- Your phone number and website address
- Your opening hours
- A few good photos of your premises, your team and your work
Setting it up
Sign in
Search for Google Business Profile and sign in with a Google account. Use one you'll keep, ideally a business email rather than a personal one.
Add your business
Enter your business name and choose the category that best describes what you do. You can add more categories later.
Say where you are
If customers visit you, add your address. If you travel to them, add your service area instead and your address stays hidden.
Add your details
Add your phone number and website, so people can call or visit your site straight from the listing.
Verify it
Google needs to confirm the business is real, and it will offer one or more ways to do it, such as a short video of your premises. Follow its instructions. Your profile goes fully live once it's verified.
Fill it in properly
A half-finished profile works, but a complete one works far better. Once you're verified, add:
- Your opening hours, including special hours for bank holidays
- A short description of the business in plain words
- Your services, and prices if you're happy to share them
- Photos, added regularly rather than all at once
- Your booking or quote link, if you have one
Treat your profile like a shop window. Keep it current and people will stop to look.
Keep it active
Profiles that are kept up to date tend to do better. Add new photos from time to time, post the occasional update or offer, answer questions people ask, and reply to every review.
Most importantly, keep your details the same everywhere. Your name, address and phone number should match exactly on your profile, your website and anywhere else you're listed.
Your profile and your website work best together. Why isn't my business showing up on Google?