By Zishan Ahmad, Managing Director · Updated 03 November 2026
Step 1: Create your Google Business Profile
Go to Google Business Profile (business.google.com) and sign in with a Google account you'll keep long term. Search for your business name - if it already exists, claim it. If not, add it.
Step 2: Choose the right category
Your primary category is one of the biggest local ranking factors. Choose the most specific one that describes your main service, for example "Website designer" rather than "Marketing agency". Add relevant secondary categories too.
Step 3: Add your address or service area
If customers visit you, add your address. If you travel to customers, set a service area instead and hide your address.
Step 4: Verify your business
Google will ask you to verify, usually by video, phone, email or post. Your profile won't appear fully on Maps until this is done.
Step 5: Complete every section
- Opening hours, including bank holidays
- Phone number and website link
- Services with short descriptions
- A keyword-rich business description that reads naturally
- At least 10 good-quality photos of your premises, team and work
Step 6: Get reviews - and reply to them
Reviews are a major ranking factor and they persuade customers. Ask every happy client for a review, make it easy with a direct link, and reply to every review, good or bad.
Step 7: Keep it active
Post updates, offers and photos regularly. Make sure your name, address and phone number match exactly on your website and other directories.
Want it done for you? Google Business Profile setup is included with every website we build, and ongoing management is part of our Growth SEO plan.