If you own a business, showing up on Google is a must. One of the easiest and most effective ways to do that is by setting up your Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business). This free tool helps your business appear in local searches, on Google Maps, and in the sidebar of search results. Best of all? It only takes a few minutes to get started.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you set up your Google Business Profile the right way.
Start by heading over to google.com/business. You’ll need to sign in with a Google account (we recommend using a business email if you have one).
Type in your business name. If it pops up in the dropdown list, it might already exist—go ahead and claim it. If not, select “Add your business to Google.”
Pick the category that best fits your business (e.g., “Website Designer,” “Coffee Shop,” “Plumber”). Don’t worry—you can always update this later.
If you have a physical storefront or office where customers visit, you’ll want to enter your business address. If you operate virtually or offer services at customer locations, you can hide your address and list your service areas instead.
Add your phone number and website URL so customers can reach you easily. If you don’t have a website yet, now’s a great time to create one (we can help with that!).
Google needs to confirm you’re the real deal. You’ll usually receive a postcard with a verification code within a few days, but phone, email, or video verification might also be options.
Once verified, fill out the rest of your profile:
Add high-quality photos of your business
Write a helpful description
Set your hours of operation
Enable messaging (if you want)
A complete Google Business Profile increases your visibility, builds trust with customers, and can even boost your local SEO. It’s like your business’s digital front door. Make sure it’s clean, welcoming, and easy to find!