Published: January 10th, 2022
Last Updated: January 23rd, 2024
If you’re not on Google, do you even exist? I know, that’s a big statement—but let’s be real. In 2024, your business’s digital footprint is everything. And the Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is your front door online. Without it, your business won't make it into Google’s Local Pack or Local Finder. That means fewer customers knocking on your (digital) door.
So, let’s dive into the exact steps you need to take to set up your Google Business Profile like a pro. And remember, this isn’t just another box to check. A well-optimized GBP can drive traffic, conversions, and—wait for it—real, paying customers.
Step 1: Create a Google Account for Your Business
Before anything else, you need to create a Google Account. Pro tip: Make one specifically for your business. Don’t use your personal Gmail—it’ll get messy fast. Just head over to accounts.google.com and click “Create account.” Choose “For work or my business” and follow the steps.
Want to skip a headache? Make sure your business email is linked to the Google Account, especially if you're managing multiple accounts or teams.
Step 2: Head Over to Google Business Profile Manager
Alright, now that you’ve got your Google account set up, head to google.com/business and click “Manage now.” This is your command center for your GBP.
Pro tip: Type your business name in the search bar. Google’s pretty good at surfacing businesses that already exist, so if there’s already a profile under your business name, it’ll show up. If that’s the case, request access instead of starting from scratch.
Step 3: Add Your Business Type
Do you have a brick-and-mortar store? Do you visit customers at their locations, or are you a purely online operation? Google needs to know, and trust me—this part matters. Your answer determines how your business shows up in local search.
If you're a Service Area Business (SAB), this is where you'll get to specify the areas you serve. Make sure this info is accurate because your visibility depends on it.
Step 4: Choose Your Business Category
Here’s where most businesses fumble. Choosing the right category is critical because it directly affects how your business appears in search results. Not sure what category to select? Keep it simple and pick the one that best describes your business—don’t overthink it. You can always add more categories later.
Step 5: Enter Your Location (If Applicable)
If you’ve got a physical location, enter the business address. You might be asked to drop a pin on the map—accuracy is key here. You don’t want your customers showing up at some random location. Trust me, it happens.
Step 6: Add Contact Details
Now for the important stuff—how your customers will reach you. Add your phone number and website. Pro tip: Make sure this info matches exactly across all your online platforms. Consistency is key when it comes to local SEO.
Step 7: Add Services and Hours
This is where you can get a little more detailed. What services do you offer? What hours are you open? Adding this info not only helps your customers but can also improve your visibility on Google.
Step 8: Toggle Messaging (Optional)
Want customers to message you directly from Google? Cool, but make sure you’ve got a system to respond quickly. Google will penalize you if you leave people hanging for more than 24 hours.
Step 9: Add a Business Description
You’ve got 750 characters to sell your business. Make them count. What sets you apart? Why should customers choose you over the competition? Keep it concise but compelling.
Pro tip: This isn’t the place for links or keywords stuffing. Keep it natural, and let your business’s unique qualities shine through.
Step 10: Upload Photos
People trust businesses they can see. Upload high-quality photos of your storefront, products, or services. And if you’ve got a brick-and-mortar spot, take shots of the interior and exterior so people know what to expect when they arrive.
Step 11: Verify Your Business
Before your GBP goes live, you’ll need to verify your business. You’ve got a few options here: postcard, phone, or email. Google will send you a verification code, and once you enter it, you’re all set.
Step 12: Optimize, Optimize, Optimize
You’re live—but don’t stop here. Keep your profile updated with new photos, promotions, and reviews. Ask satisfied customers to drop a review on your GBP. Google loves active profiles, and the more you update, the more visibility you’ll get.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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