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With a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business), your company appears on Google Maps and in the information panel on the right when someone searches for your business or for nearby services. It's free and one of the easiest ways to attract more local customers.
Creating your profile
- Go to business.google.com and sign in with a Google account. Ideally use an account that belongs to the business rather than an individual employee.
- Enter your company name. If a profile already exists, you can request to claim it.
- Choose the category that best describes your business. This has a significant impact on which searches you appear in.
- Add your address if customers visit you in person, or specify the area you cover if you travel to customers.
- Add a phone number and your website address.
- Verify your profile. Google offers several methods, such as a short video of your business, SMS, phone, or post.
Getting the most out of your profile
- Fill in your opening hours and keep them updated during public holidays.
- Upload genuine photos of your premises, staff, and the work you do.
- Ask satisfied customers for reviews, and respond to all of them — including the negative ones.
- Use the same name, address, and phone number as on your website. Inconsistencies make Google uncertain about which information is correct.
- Link to the right page — for example, a page for a specific location if you have multiple offices.
The profile works the same way regardless of which platform your website is built on. All you need is your website address.
Connecting to Search Console
Your profile and website work better together. Add your website to Google Search Console to see which searches are driving traffic, and check that your website isn't blocking Google.
For more ways to improve your visibility, see the article How to increase your company's visibility on Google.