How to get your business on Google Maps
A free Google Business Profile puts your business on Google Maps and in the local results. Here is how to set it up, verify it, and rank higher, step by step.
When someone nearby searches for what you do, Google often shows a small map with three businesses above everything else. Being one of those three can bring more customers than any amount of advertising. The good news: getting there starts with something completely free.
It starts with a Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the free listing that puts you on Google Maps and in the local results, with your hours, phone number, photos and reviews. For a local business it is often more valuable than the website itself. You can create one at google.com/business.
1. Claim and verify your listing
Search for your business name on Google. If a listing already exists, claim it; if not, create one. Google then verifies you really run the business, usually by phone, email or a postcard. Until you verify, your listing will not show properly.
2. Fill in every detail
Complete profiles rank higher and win more clicks. Add your exact business name, address, phone, website, opening hours, and the categories that describe what you do. Be accurate and consistent with how these appear on your website.
3. Add real photos
Listings with good photos get noticeably more enquiries. Add your storefront, your work, your team and your products. Fresh photos also signal to Google that the business is active.
4. Ask for reviews, and reply to them
Reviews are one of the strongest factors in local ranking, and they are what convinces a stranger to choose you. Ask happy customers to leave one, and reply to every review, positive or negative, politely and briefly.
5. Link it to a healthy website
Your profile and your website work together. If your site is fast, secure and clearly describes your services and area, both rank better. You can check your site free in a minute with our website check.
Common questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes, completely. Creating, verifying and managing your listing costs nothing. Google does offer paid ads separately, but the listing itself and appearing in the map results are free.
How long until I show up on Google Maps?
After you verify your listing it usually appears within a few days. Ranking in the top local results takes longer and depends on your categories, reviews, distance from the searcher and how complete your profile is.
Do I need a website as well?
A profile alone can work for very simple businesses, but a website gives you somewhere to send people, builds trust, and helps both your profile and your search ranking. The two reinforce each other.