A Google Business Profile helps nearby customers find you, and setup is quick when you know what Google checks. This guide shows how to get yours approved.
A Google Business Profile is the listing that appears on Google Search and Maps when people look for a business near them. It is free, and for a local business it is one of the most useful things you can set up.
Who can have one
Google allows a profile for businesses that meet customers in person, or that travel to customers in a service area. Online-only businesses with no public location and no in-person service generally do not qualify. Read Google’s current guidelines before you start, because the rules are strict.
Set it up
- Sign in with a Google account you will keep long term, and search for your business name to see if a profile already exists.
- Enter your real business name. Use the name customers see on your sign and website. Do not add keywords to the name.
- Choose a main category. Pick the one that best describes what you are, such as “Website designer”. You can add secondary categories.
- Add your location or service area. If customers visit you, give the address. If you travel to them, you can hide your address and list the areas you serve.
- Add contact details and hours that match your website exactly.
- Verify. Google will ask you to prove the business is real, by postcode letter, phone, email or a short video, depending on your case. Follow the steps and use real evidence.
After you are verified
- Add photos of your work, premises and team.
- List your services with short descriptions.
- Ask happy customers for reviews, and reply to every review.
- Add your website link and keep details up to date.
What gets profiles suspended
Using an address where you do not actually operate, shared office or virtual addresses that do not meet the rules, keyword-stuffed names and fake reviews are the usual causes. Use only true information. A profile that is approved honestly is far safer than one that is rushed.
We set up Google visibility as part of our website builds. Ask us if you want help.
