Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the listing that shows up on the right side of Google search results and on Google Maps when someone searches for a business. It shows your name, address, phone number, hours, reviews, photos, and a link to your website. It's completely free.

If you've ever searched for "pizza near me" and seen a map with three businesses listed below it, those are Google Business Profiles. Getting into that map pack is one of the most valuable things a local business can do online.

Why It Matters for Your Business

For local businesses, your Google Business Profile might matter more than your website. According to Google, businesses with a complete profile are 70% more likely to attract location visits and 50% more likely to lead to a purchase. It's often the first thing a potential customer sees about your business.

Reviews on your profile also play a huge role. 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses. A strong profile with real reviews and up-to-date information builds trust before someone ever visits your website or walks through your door.

The Basics

Claim and verify it. Go to business.google.com and search for your business. If it already exists, claim it. If not, create it. Google will verify you own the business, usually by sending a postcard with a code to your address. This step is essential.

Fill out every field. Business name, address, phone, website, hours, category, services, description. Don't skip anything. Google uses this information to decide when to show your listing. Incomplete profiles rank lower than complete ones.

Choose the right category. Your primary category is one of the biggest ranking factors for local search. Be specific. "Italian Restaurant" is better than just "Restaurant." You can add secondary categories too, but the primary one carries the most weight.

Post photos regularly. Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their website. Upload real photos of your business, your team, your work, and your products. Not stock photos. Real ones.

Respond to every review. Good reviews and bad ones. Thank people for positive reviews. Address negative reviews professionally and offer to make it right. Google has confirmed that responding to reviews improves your local ranking. It also shows potential customers that you care.

Keep your hours updated. Especially for holidays and special events. Nothing frustrates a customer more than driving to a business that Google said was open, only to find it closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my business on Google Maps?

Create or claim your Google Business Profile at business.google.com. Once you add your address and verify your business, you'll appear on Google Maps. Make sure your address is accurate and matches what's on your website and other directories. Inconsistent information confuses Google and can keep you off the map.

Is Google Business Profile free?

Yes, completely free. You don't need to spend a dollar to create, manage, or maintain your profile. Google makes money from ads, not from business listings. Some third-party services charge to "manage" your profile, but you can do everything yourself through the Google Business Profile dashboard.

How do I get more Google reviews?

Ask. Most happy customers will leave a review if you make it easy. Send a follow-up email or text after a job with a direct link to your review page. You can find this link in your Google Business Profile dashboard under "Ask for reviews." Don't offer incentives for reviews as that violates Google's policies and can get your reviews removed.