Turn people who find you on Google Search and Maps into new customers with a free Business Profile for your storefront or service area. Personalize your profile with photos, offers, posts, and more.
Google Business Profiles are a free service provided by Google to help improve the online presence of small businesses. This program was first launched as "Google Get Your Business Online" in 2011 and then rebranded as "Googly My Business" before landing on its current naming, "Google Business Profile".
Google Business Profiles are meant to be easy to register, manage and update. Business information collected via these profiles influences several other Google applications like Google Ads, Google Maps and Google Search.
The Google local map pack on is prominent in search engine results, usually comprising all content above the fold except Google sponsored ads. That means that most users won't even bother scrolling past the Google map pack feature to view top-ranking websites related to their query. Here's a list of search terms or keyword phrases with local intent as an aspect:
Basically anything noting "near me" will prompt a Google Maps display.
General terms of services, trades, stores, professionals like "lawyer", "plumber", "ice cream", "coffee shop", etc.
GBP results dominate the top of local intention SERPs and level the SEO playing field.
It's important to produce the most thoroughly complete profile that you can muster. Here we'll cover all the options business owners have to entering data about their line.
You are required to use your legal or DBA business name when you create your profile, otherwise your listing could be suspended. Don't attempt to add keywords in this field. Your business name may be automatically changed to match gathered business data indicated the proper business name.
The business category you select is the single most important ranking factor for your profile besides your business name. It tells users, potential customers, and Google what kind of business you run. Ask yourself, what one or two words would you use to describe the type of store you have. What is your main service or product that you want to promote and that realistically reflects your core business offering.
Google uses business categories to match your profile with relevant search queries. When a user searches for services or businesses (e.g., "plumber near me"), Google uses the categories to decide which businesses to show. Having the right categories improves the likelihood of showing up for relevant searches.
Here's an important tip for your business' category and secondary category that stands for all GBP information, don't be deceptive. You really don't want to lose your profile or worse, get banned.
Don't over think the description in your Google Business profile. Naturally talk about your venture like you are presenting it to a friend or client.Â
If you want your GBP to rank ahead of your competitors, then you better have a website aligned to the same categories and services in your listing. A website is a powerful ranking signal and factor for displaying your result above other related companies, even those farther away. Make sure your website is user friendly and uses SEO best practices. Google will use your website to confirm and understand the nature of your business.
Learn how to use Google Sites as your website. Google Sites is made to cover all the important bases for a successful small business website.
Whether you’re a restaurant, store, or service provider, your profile helps customers do business with you easily and directly with product inventory, ordering, bookings, quotes, and more.
Yes. It doesn't cost anything to publish your GMB profile; it is a completely free service.
The URL to both create and manage profiles is business.google.com. This is the easiest way to login with your Google account. If you've already verified your business profile, you can usually access profile management from simply typing in your business name.
There is not much difference between the function of these two services. One simply transitioned into the other as a name change.
To create a Google Business Profile, first, sign in to your Google account and visit the Google Business Profile website. Click "Manage Now" and enter your business name, address, and category. You can also add contact details like phone number and website. Once done, you need to verify the business to ensure it's legitimate. Google offers several verification methods, such as postcard by mail, phone, email, or instant verification if you already manage a verified website. After selecting the verification method, follow the instructions provided by Google. Once verified, you can manage your profile, update business information, and interact with customers through reviews and posts.
Businesses that interact directly with customers, either at a physical location or through service areas, qualify for a Google Business Profile. This includes brick-and-mortar stores, service-based businesses like plumbers, and professionals like doctors or lawyers. However, online-only businesses, rental properties without on-site management, and businesses under construction that are not yet open to the public are not eligible. Additionally, profiles for individuals or entities that do not offer face-to-face services or have a virtual-only presence are not allowed.
If the profile is already on Google, you can use the "Is this your business" button to explore the verification process. This will confirm you are in fact the business owner and have the authority to claim the profile.
Yes. GBP is a free tool!
It is highly recommended for businesses wanting to target a local demographic.
If you want local customers then a GMB/GBP is 100% worth it. One popular reason why businesses may opt to not create a profile is avoid public reviews since those cannot be disabled.
Yes, there are software applications and Chrome extensions to work with Google Business Profiles.
No. While you may see advertisements encouraging you to register for Google Workspace, it isn't required for a fully functioning Google Business Profile.
You can run a local type Google Ads campaign which sponsors your business profile. This requires a verification process to confirm you are the domain and profile owner. Link your accounts and launch a campaign to gain the edge over competition. Sponsored profiles can appear in Google Search and Google Maps. This is similar to other pay-per-click campaigns, just with a hyper localized focus.
There is no official Google My Business app. Alternatively, you can access your profile on any mobile browser.
You will need a Google account.
The content of posted customers reviews is factored in by Google and can influence whether your profile is displayed above or below competitors. For example, if a customer mentions a specific detail, service, product or experience that other users are searching for, it may affect results. Responses to reviews by the business owner, however, are less likely to impact search since they may be manipulated. Overall, fresh responses to customers reviews, whether positive or negative, will show you care about your business' reputation. It's good practice to check and reply to reviews on a regular basis.