Google Business Profile Setup Guide: Get Found Locally

Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the single most important tool for local SEO. It controls what appears in the Google Local Pack - the map-based results that appear above organic listings for local queries - and in Google Maps. A complete, well-optimised profile is the foundation of local search visibility.

Setting up your Google Business Profile

1. Go to business.google.com and sign in with your Google account. 2. Search for your business - claim it if it already exists, or create a new one. 3. Choose the most accurate primary business category. 4. Add your address (or service area if you do not have a physical location). 5. Verify your listing via postcard, phone or email.

Optimising your profile for maximum visibility

Business name: use your exact legal name, no keyword stuffing. Description: 750 characters, include primary keywords naturally. Categories: add all relevant secondary categories. Photos: upload at least 10 high-quality photos including interior, exterior, team and products. Hours: keep these current and updated for holidays. Attributes: select all applicable attributes (wheelchair accessible, free WiFi, etc.).

The role of reviews

Reviews are a major local ranking factor. More reviews, higher average rating and recent activity all positively impact Local Pack rankings. Respond to every review - positive and negative. Actively ask satisfied customers to leave reviews via a direct link from your GBP profile dashboard.

Google Posts

Use Google Posts to publish updates, offers and events directly on your profile. Posts appear in search results and Maps. Publish at least 2 posts per month to signal active business management.

Conclusion

Claim or create your Google Business Profile today. Complete every field. Upload 10+ photos. Ask your last 5 customers for a review. Publish your first Google Post. Those four actions will significantly improve your local search visibility within 30 days.