How do you set up a Google Business Profile?

Step 1: Is there already a listing for your business?

Search for your business name on Google Maps. Customers or Google may have created a listing already. If one exists, claim it instead of making a second one: duplicate listings confuse customers and Google.

Step 2: How do you claim or create the listing?

Go to business.google.com and sign in with a Google account you’ll keep. Use an account in the business owner’s name, not a staff member’s, so you never lose access.

Step 3: How does Google verification work?

Google needs proof the business is real. It may ask for a short video showing your sign, your workspace or proof of the business, or use a phone call, text, email or postcard. Start this early, because it can take a while.

Step 4: Which category should you choose?

The main category matters most. Pick the one that describes what you do, such as “Plumber” or “Bakery”, then add a few extra categories that truly fit. Don’t add categories for things you don’t do.

Step 5: What should you fill in?

• Hours, and holiday hours before each holiday
• Phone number and website, the same as on your website
• Services or menu, with short descriptions and prices where you can
• Your booking or order link
• A plain description: what you do, where, and for whom

Step 6: Should you hide your address?

If customers come to you, show your address. If you go to customers, like most trades and home-based businesses, hide it and list the areas you serve instead. You still give Google the address privately for verification.

Step 7: Which photos should you add?

Your own photos: the outside, the inside, your team and your work. Add your menu or price list too. Real photos beat stock photos.

Step 8: How should you handle reviews?

Reply to every review, including the bad ones, calmly and in your own voice. Ask every customer for a review after the job, not only the happy ones. Never buy reviews or offer something in return for one: it breaks Google’s rules and can get a listing suspended.