Setting up a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a crucial step for any business that wants to be found online, especially by local customers.
It’s a free tool that allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your Google Business Profile:
Step 1: Sign in to or Create a Google Account
You’ll need a Google Account to manage your Business Profile.
It’s recommended to use a Google Account specifically for your business (e.g., an email address with your business domain, or a dedicated Gmail account).
Go to accounts.google.com to sign in or create a new account. If creating a new one, select “To manage my business” during the setup process.
Step 2: Go to Google Business Profile Manager
Once you’re signed in to your Google Account, go to business.google.com.
Click “Manage now” or “Add your business to Google.”
Step 3: Enter Your Business Name
Start typing your business name in the search bar.
If your business already appears: Select it from the dropdown. This means a profile might already exist (perhaps created by Google or another user). You’ll then proceed to claim or request ownership of it.
If your business doesn’t appear: Click “Add your business to Google.”
Step 4: Choose Your Business Type
Google will ask you about the type of business you have:
Online retail: If you primarily sell online and don’t have a physical storefront where customers visit. You’ll add your website link.
Local store: If you have a physical location where customers can visit you (e.g., a restaurant, retail shop). You’ll add your business address.
Service-area business: If you provide services at customer locations and don’t have a storefront (e.g., plumber, electrician, cleaning service). You’ll define your service areas (cities, regions, or zip codes).
Step 5: Select Your Primary Business Category
This is very important as it helps Google understand what your business does and show it for relevant searches.
Start typing and select the most accurate category from the suggestions.
You can add more categories later, but choose the most important one as your primary.
Step 6: Add Your Location (if applicable)
If you’re a local store, enter your full business address. Google will use this for verification.
If you’re a service-area business, you’ll define your service areas instead of a physical address. You can choose to hide your address if you don’t want it publicly displayed.
Step 7: Add Your Contact Information
Enter your business phone number.
Add your website URL (if you have one). If not, Google can help you create a simple one.
Step 8: Finish and Verify Your Profile
After entering the basic details, you’ll be prompted to “Finish” the profile creation.
Verification is crucial: Your profile won’t be fully visible on Google Search and Maps until it’s verified. Google offers several verification methods:
- Postcard by mail: This is a common method. Google sends a postcard with a verification code to your business address. You’ll enter this code into your profile once it arrives. This can take 5-14 days.
- Phone or text: Some businesses may have the option to receive a code via phone call or SMS.
- Email: If eligible, you might receive a verification code via email.
- Video recording or live video call: Google may offer these as options, where you show proof of your business (e.g., your storefront, equipment, signage).
- Instant verification: Some businesses may be instantly verified if they’ve already verified their website with Google Search Console.
Step 9: Optimize Your Google Business Profile (Post-Verification)
Once verified, actively manage and optimize your profile to maximize its impact:
- Complete your profile: Fill out all sections comprehensively. The more complete your profile, the better.
- Hours of Operation: Crucial for customers to know when you’re open. Include special hours for holidays.
- Business Description: Write a concise, keyword-rich description of your business (up to 750 characters). Don’t include links or sales pitches here.
- Photos: Upload high-quality photos of your storefront (exterior and interior), products, services, team, and logo. This significantly increases engagement.
- Services/Products: List the specific services or products you offer.
- Attributes: Add relevant attributes (e.g., “wheelchair accessible,” “free Wi-Fi,” “women-owned,” “LGBTQ+ friendly,” “online appointments”).
- Manage Reviews:
- Encourage customers to leave reviews.
- Respond to all reviews (positive and negative) professionally and promptly. This builds trust and shows you value customer feedback.
- Google Posts: Use Google Posts to share updates, offers, events, and news directly on your profile. These are like mini-blog posts that appear prominently in search results.
- Q&A Section: Monitor and answer questions asked by customers. You can also seed this section with frequently asked questions.
- Messaging: Enable direct messaging if you want customers to be able to text you questions directly from your profile.
- Insights: Regularly check the “Insights” section of your Google Business Profile dashboard to see how customers are finding you and interacting with your listing. This data can inform your marketing efforts.
By thoroughly setting up and regularly maintaining your Google Business Profile, you’ll significantly enhance your local online visibility and make it easier for potential customers to find and connect with your business.
