Why Google Business Profile Matters

Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that helps your business appear in local search results and Google Maps. A well-optimised profile can significantly improve your visibility when potential customers search for businesses like yours in your area.

  • If Your Business Doesn't Appear in Search:

    1. Go to business.google.com

    2. Click "Manage now"

    3. Sign in with your Google account (or create one)

    4. Enter your business name

    5. Choose your business category

    6. Add your business address

    7. Choose whether customers visit your location or you serve them at their location

    If Your Business Already Appears:

    1. Search for your business on Google

    2. Look for "Own this business?" or "Claim this business"

    3. Click it and follow the verification process

  • Google will verify your business through one of these methods:

    • Postcard verification (most common): Google sends a postcard with a verification code to your business address

    • Phone verification: Receive an automated call with a code

    • Email verification: Get a code via email (less common)

    • Instant verification: Available for some businesses already verified elsewhere

    Important: Use your actual business address and phone number. Never use a fake address or PO Box unless you're a service-area business.

  • Essential Information to Add:

    Business Details:

    • Business name (use your official business name)

    • Address (complete and accurate)

    • Phone number (local number preferred)

    • Website URL

    • Business hours (including holiday hours)

    • Business category (choose the most specific category that fits)

    Business Description:

    • Write a compelling 750-character description

    • Include relevant keywords naturally

    • Mention your services, location, and what makes you unique

    • Avoid keyword stuffing

    Attributes:

    • Select relevant attributes (e.g., "Women-led," "Wheelchair accessible," "Accepts credit cards")

    • These help customers find businesses that meet their specific needs

  • Upload at least 10-15 high-quality photos:

    • Logo: Your business logo (square format works best)

    • Cover photo: Exterior of your business or a key service image

    • Interior photos: Show your workspace, products, or team

    • Product/service photos: Showcase your work or offerings

    • Team photos: Help customers connect with your business

    Photo Tips:

    • Use high-resolution images (720px minimum)

    • Ensure photos are well-lit and clear

    • Update photos regularly to keep content fresh

    • Include photos of your actual business, not stock photos

  • Getting Reviews:

    Managing Reviews:

    • Respond to all reviews (positive and negative)

    • Keep responses professional and helpful

    • Thank customers for positive reviews

    • Address concerns in negative reviews constructively

    • Respond quickly (within 24-48 hours when possible)

  • Create regular Google Posts to keep your profile active:

    • What's New: Announce updates, new services, or events

    • Events: Promote upcoming events or sales

    • Products: Showcase specific products or services

    • Offers: Share special deals or promotions

    Posting Tips:

    • Post weekly or bi-weekly

    • Include eye-catching images

    • Use clear calls-to-action

    • Keep text concise but engaging

  • Check your Google Business Profile insights regularly:

    • Search queries: See how customers find you

    • Customer actions: Track calls, website visits, direction requests

    • Photo views: Monitor which photos get the most engagement

    • Review analysis: Understand customer sentiment

  • Regular Maintenance:

    • Update business hours for holidays

    • Add new photos monthly

    • Respond to customer questions promptly

    • Update services or products as they change

    • Monitor for any unauthorized edits to your profile

Need Help?

If you encounter issues during setup or have questions about optimising your profile, don't hesitate to reach out. We can also manage this process for you once you provide all the details above. Usually this is charged at an additional 1-2 hours. See additional tips and common mistakes below:

    1. Consistency: Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are identical across all online platforms

    2. Local keywords: Use location-specific keywords in your description and posts

    3. Mobile optimization: Most local searches happen on mobile devices

    4. Link building: Encourage other local businesses and websites to link to your Google Business Profile

    5. Google My Business messaging: Enable messaging to communicate directly with customers

    • Using a fake or inaccurate business address

    • Choosing the wrong business category

    • Ignoring negative reviews

    • Using low-quality or irrelevant photos

    • Inconsistent business information across platforms

    • Not regularly updating your profile

    • Violating Google's guidelines (which can result in suspension)

This guide was prepared by Studio AM. For professional graphic design and digital marketing services, visit studioam.au