How to Get Your Business Found on Google Maps
When someone searches for a restaurant, salon or shop near them, Google often shows a map with businesses first. If your business is not there, or its details are wrong, nearby customers will find your competitors instead. The way to appear is a free Google Business Profile. This guide shows how to set it up and improve it.
Step 1: Claim or create your profile
Search for your business name on Google or Google Maps. If it already appears, look for the option to claim or manage it. If not, create a new Business Profile from your Google account. Use a business email you control, rather than a personal one, so you do not lose access.
Step 2: Verify your business
Google needs to confirm that you really run the business. The verification options, such as a postcard, a phone call, a text or a video, depend on your country and business type. Follow the steps Google shows you. Profiles that are not verified often do not appear properly.
Step 3: Fill in everything
- Business name: use your real name only. Adding extra keywords or a city to the name breaks Google's rules and can get your profile suspended.
- Category: choose the one that best describes your main business, such as "Restaurant" or "Hair salon".
- Address and service area: correct and exactly as customers will see it.
- Opening hours: keep them accurate, and update for holidays.
- Phone number and website: the same details you use everywhere else.
- Description: a short, honest summary of what you offer.
Step 4: Add photos
Real photos of your food, products, team and premises build trust. Add a clear photo of your entrance, so people can find you. Replace old or dark pictures, and add new ones regularly.
Step 5: Add your menu, services or products
Many profiles let you add a menu link, a list of services or products with prices. If yours does, use it. See our guide on putting your menu online for a link to use.
Step 6: Collect and answer reviews
Reviews strongly affect whether people choose you. Reply politely to every review, good or bad, and read our guide on getting more reviews the right way.
Keep it up to date
- Check your profile monthly for wrong details or new questions.
- Use the same name, address and phone number everywhere online.
- Post updates or offers if your profile allows posts.
Mistakes to avoid
- Creating duplicate profiles for the same place
- Keyword-stuffing the business name
- Buying or writing fake reviews
- Leaving old opening hours online
Frequently asked questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating and managing a profile costs nothing.
How long until I appear?
After verification, changes can take a few days to show. How high you appear depends on factors like how close you are to the searcher, how complete your profile is, and your reviews, so no one can promise a specific position.
Do I need a website?
Not strictly, but a website, or at least a menu or services link, gives customers more reason to choose you.