How to Set Up Google My Business


Overview

Google My Business (now part of Google Business Profile) is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps. Setting up your business profile helps customers find you, learn about your services, and connect with you directly.


Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • A Google account (Gmail)
  • Your business name, address, and phone number
  • Your business category and description
  • Business hours
  • Photos of your business (optional but recommended)
  • Authority to manage the business listing

Step-by-Step Setup Process


Step 1: Access Google Business Profile

Navigate to business.google.com and sign in with your Google account. If you don't have a Google account, you'll need to create one first.


Step 2: Search for Your Business

Google will ask you to enter your business name. As you type, Google will show existing listings that match your search. Check if your business already has a listing:

  • If your business appears: Click on it and claim ownership
  • If your business doesn't appear: Click "Add your business to Google" or "Create a business with this name"

Step 3: Choose Your Business Category

Select the category that best describes your business. This is important because it determines how your business appears in relevant searches. You can add additional categories later, but choose your primary category carefully.


Step 4: Add Your Business Location

Indicate whether your business has a physical location that customers can visit:

  • Businesses with a physical location: Enter your complete street address
  • Service-area businesses: You can choose to hide your address and instead specify the areas you serve
  • Online-only businesses: Select that you don't have a physical location

Step 5: Provide Contact Information

Enter your business phone number and website URL. These allow customers to contact you directly from your Google listing. If you don't have a website, Google can help you create a simple one for free.


Step 6: Verification

Google requires you to verify that you own or manage the business. Verification methods include:

  • Postcard verification: Google mails a postcard with a verification code to your business address (typically takes 5-7 days)
  • Phone verification: Receive a code via phone call or text message (if available for your business)
  • Email verification: Receive a code via email (for some business types)
  • Instant verification: Available if you've already verified your business through Google Search Console

Follow the instructions for your verification method. Once you receive your code, return to your Business Profile and enter it to complete verification.


Step 7: Complete Your Business Profile

After verification (or while waiting for verification), optimize your profile by adding:

Business Description: Write a compelling 750-character description that explains what makes your business unique, your products or services, and your history.

Business Hours: Set your regular hours and mark special hours for holidays.

Photos: Upload high-quality images including:

  • Logo
  • Cover photo
  • Interior and exterior photos
  • Photos of your products or services
  • Team photos

Attributes: Select relevant attributes such as "wheelchair accessible," "outdoor seating," "free Wi-Fi," etc.

Services or Products: List what you offer with descriptions and prices if applicable.

Appointment Links: Add booking URLs if you accept online appointments.


Best Practices

  • Keep information accurate: Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information is consistent across all online platforms
  • Respond to reviews: Engage with customer reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional manner
  • Post regular updates: Use Google Posts to share news, offers, events, and updates
  • Add photos regularly: Businesses with photos receive more requests for directions and clicks to their websites
  • Monitor insights: Check your performance metrics to understand how customers find and interact with your listing
  • Enable messaging: Allow customers to message you directly from your listing

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue: Can't verify my business

  • Ensure your business address is accurate and matches official records
  • Contact Google Business Profile support for alternative verification methods
  • Check that you're not attempting to verify an ineligible business type

Issue: Duplicate listings

  • Report duplicate listings through the Google Business Profile dashboard
  • Request ownership if someone else has claimed your business incorrectly

Issue: Suspended listing

  • Review Google's guidelines to understand why your listing was suspended
  • Make necessary corrections and request reinstatement

After Setup

Once your profile is live:

  1. Monitor and respond to customer reviews regularly
  2. Update your business hours for holidays or special events
  3. Share posts about promotions, events, or news
  4. Add new photos every few weeks
  5. Check your insights monthly to track performance
  6. Keep all information current, especially contact details

Additional Resources

  • Google Business Profile Help Center: support.google.com/business
  • Google Business Profile Guidelines
  • Google My Business API documentation for developers
  • Local SEO best practices guides

Support

If you encounter issues during setup:

  • Visit the Google Business Profile Help Center
  • Contact Google Business Profile support through the dashboard
  • Check the Google Business Profile community forum for answers


For the most current information and features, always refer to Google's official Business Profile documentation as the platform continues to evolve.

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