When someone searches for a business like yours nearby, the first thing they often see isn't your website. It's your Google Business Profile: the panel with your map pin, photos, hours and reviews. A complete profile can bring you calls, directions requests and website visits every day, for free. Here's how to set it up properly.

What is a Google Business Profile?

It's a free listing (formerly called Google My Business) that controls how your business appears in Google Search and Maps. You can show your hours, services, photos, updates and reviews, and customers can call, get directions or visit your website in one tap.

Step 1: Create or claim your profile

  1. Go to Google Business Profile and sign in with a Google account you'll keep long term.
  2. Search for your business name. If it exists, claim it; if not, create it.
  3. Enter your exact business name, as customers see it on your sign. Don't add keywords to your name; it's against the guidelines.

Step 2: Choose the right categories

Your primary category is one of the most important settings. Pick the most specific option ("Italian restaurant" rather than "Restaurant"). Add a few secondary categories only if they genuinely apply.

Step 3: Add your location or service area

  • If customers visit you, add your address.
  • If you travel to customers (plumbers, cleaners, mobile detailers), set a service area and hide your address if it's your home.

Step 4: Verify your business

Google will ask you to verify, usually by video, phone, email or post, depending on your business. You'll need to finish this before your profile is fully visible.

Step 5: Complete every section

  • Hours, including special hours for holidays
  • Phone number and website (your homepage or a relevant page)
  • Services or menu, with descriptions and prices where possible
  • Description: two or three sentences about what makes you different
  • Attributes, such as accessibility, payment options and amenities

Use exactly the same name, address and phone number as on your website. Consistency builds trust with customers and search engines.

Step 6: Add great photos

Upload your logo, a cover photo and real photos of your premises, team, products and work. Add new photos regularly; active profiles tend to look more trustworthy.

Step 7: Get and respond to reviews

  • Share your review link with every happy customer.
  • Reply to every review politely and promptly, including negative ones.
  • Never buy, swap or fake reviews; this can get your profile suspended.

Step 8: Post updates

Use posts for offers, events, new services and seasonal news. They keep your profile fresh and give searchers another reason to choose you.

How your profile and website work together

Your profile gets attention; your website closes the deal. Visitors who click through want to see your full services, prices, reviews and an easy way to book. Make sure your website:

  • Matches your profile details exactly
  • Loads fast on phones
  • Has a clear booking or contact button

Don't have a website yet? Create one with OnePrompts in minutes, then add the link to your profile. For more ways to get found, read our local SEO checklist.