If you’re running a local business, having a strong online presence isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. And one of the most powerful (and free) tools to boost your visibility is Google My Business, now known as Google Business Profile.
When someone searches for your business—or businesses like yours—on Google, your Business Profile is what helps you stand out in search results and on Google Maps. But just creating a listing isn’t enough. You need to set it up properly and keep it optimized to truly benefit.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up and optimize Google My Business so your local business can attract more customers and build trust.
Why Google My Business Matters
Nearly 90% of all searches happen on Google. When users search for services “near me,” Google pulls data from Business Profiles to show results.
What You Gain from Google My Business
- Appear in local search results and map packs
- Build trust with verified business info and reviews
- Share real-time updates, offers, and events
- Improve your chances of getting contacted or visited
Google My Business acts as your digital storefront. First impressions start here.
Step 1: Set Up Your Google Business Profile
Creating your profile is simple, but accuracy is key.
How to Create Your Listing
- Go to google.com/business
- Sign in with your Google account
- Enter your business name exactly as you want it displayed
- Choose the most accurate category (e.g., Coffee Shop, Yoga Studio)
- Add your business location and service area
- Input your phone number and website
- Choose if you accept messages
- Request verification by mail, phone, or email
Verification proves you’re the real business owner. Complete this step to go live.
Step 2: Complete Every Section of Your Profile
The more complete your profile, the better your chances of ranking higher in local searches.
Key Areas to Fill Out
- Business description (use keywords naturally)
- Business hours (keep them updated!)
- Products and services
- Photos and videos
- Attributes (e.g. women-owned, outdoor seating, wheelchair accessible)
Complete profiles are twice as likely to be considered reputable by users.
Step 3: Add High-Quality Photos and Videos
Visual content significantly boosts engagement. Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites.
What to Include
- Exterior and interior shots
- Staff photos
- Product or service action shots
- Logo and cover image
- Short videos of your process or environment
Keep visuals authentic and in good lighting.
Step 4: Collect and Respond to Reviews
Customer reviews are social proof. A consistent stream of positive reviews builds trust and impacts local ranking.
Tips for Reviews
- Ask satisfied customers to leave a review (via email, signage, or a QR code)
- Respond to every review—thank happy clients and professionally address negative ones
- Avoid fake or incentivized reviews
Reviews + responses show Google—and future customers—that you’re active and trustworthy.
Step 5: Use Posts to Share Updates and Offers
Google Posts let you share real-time updates, much like a social feed, directly in your profile.
What to Post
- Announcements (new hours, holiday closures)
- Promotions and sales
- Blog content or educational tips
- Event invites
Fresh content shows you’re engaged and relevant. Post at least once a week.
Step 6: Monitor Insights and Optimize Regularly
Google provides analytics that show how users find and interact with your profile.
Key Insights to Track
- How customers find you (direct vs. discovery search)
- Where they view your listing (Search vs. Maps)
- Actions taken (calls, website clicks, direction requests)
- Popular times and photo views
Use insights to refine your content, hours, or focus areas for better engagement.
Final Thoughts
Your Google Business Profile isn’t just a one-time setup—it’s a dynamic marketing tool that helps local customers find and choose you. With proper setup and regular updates, your profile can drive real-world results: more visits, calls, reviews, and revenue.
Take time to verify your listing, fill out every section, add great visuals, and respond to reviews. Your visibility on Google is often the first touchpoint with potential customers—make it count.
Want to Get Found on Google?
- 📍 Download our Free Google My Business Checklist
- 📥 Subscribe for more tips on local marketing that actually work
- 💬 Drop a comment if you’ve claimed your listing—what worked best for you?
