How to Create a Google Business Profile and Why Every Business Needs One

If you want your business to be found on Google Search and Maps, creating a Google Business Profile is one of the best things you can do. The best part is that it is completely free to use!

To get started, visit Google.com/business to either sign in using an already existing Google account, or sign up. It is recommended that you use your business account, rather than your personal one. Once you’re logged in, you can begin creating a profile. 

A Google Business Profile has several benefits and allows you to showcase all of the most important details about your company. This includes: 

• The name of your business

• A business phone number and email

• An address where you serve consumers

• Business hours of operation

• A link that takes consumers directly to your website homepage or online store

• The type of business—you will have the options to choose an online retail, local store, or a service business

• A business category—we recommend using a broader category that people are most likely to search for on Google or Maps

• A business description—a short, sweet overview of what you do

• Photos—of your storefront, interior, products, or anything else you want consumers to see

• Customer reviews of your business—receiving valuable feedback helps you learn more about what consumers want from you

• Q&A’s of most commonly asked questions—gives your consumers information about what your business does, where you are, and who you serve 

These details are an important part of keeping your business reliable and reputable. It’s not just about being seen, but also how your business looks when people see it. Your profile serves as a public reflection of your credibility and trustworthiness.

Other Features

Once you’ve entered all of your business information, Google will ask you to verify your address to confirm that your business is legitimate and accurate. You can always edit, update, or add information later as your business grows. 

Google also has a feature that allows you to add any products, their pricing, the category, description, a photo, and a URL that takes consumers directly to your website to purchase the product.

If you’re a service-based business, you can also list all of your services and related keywords. This is extremely important because when consumers search for “[your service] near me,” your business will be more likely to show up. You should add as many related keywords as possible to increase your visibility. 

Why Does a Google Business Profile Matter?

Your Google Business Profile displays the most important and eye-catching information about your business, giving your target audience exactly what they need. Whether you’re a physical storefront or an online store, it’s an incredibly useful tool that helps your business stand out and be recognized by consumers who are actively searching for services like yours. As people type in keywords related to your business, your profile can pop up and grab their attention, bringing in new consumers who might not have discovered you otherwise. 

Another advantage is that you are in complete control of all your business information, ensuring your audience always sees the most accurate details. You have the power to highlight the most important parts of your business to show consumers what makes you stand out.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a Google Business Profile is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to grow your online presence and reach new consumers. It allows your business to appear on Google Search and Maps and gives you the power to showcase your business as it comes on screen. It also helps keep your current audience updated on what’s happening with your business and keeps you reputable in a discoverable place. If you haven’t created your Google Business Profile yet, there’s no better time to start. It's free, easy to set up, and one of the most valuable tools for helping your business get discovered online.