How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile
A step-by-step guide for small business owners
When people search for your business — or a service you offer — what do they see?
If your business isn’t showing up in Google search or maps, or the info they find is old or incorrect, you might be missing out on new customers.
The good news? A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is free, easy to set up, and one of the fastest ways to boost your visibility online.
Here’s exactly how to do it — step by step.
Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile Manager
Start by heading to: https://www.google.com/business
Click “Manage now” and sign in with a Google account (your business Gmail or any account you want to manage your listing from).
Step 2: Enter Your Business Name
Search for your business name. If it doesn’t exist, you’ll be able to create a new business.
Tip: Make sure your name is consistent with how it appears on Facebook, your website, etc.
Step 3: Choose the Right Business Category
Start typing and Google will offer suggestions.
Choose the closest match to what you do — this helps you show up in the right searches.
Example: “Hair Salon,” “Plumber,” “Mobile Welding Service,” “Graphic Designer”
Step 4: Add Your Location (If You Serve Local Customers)
If you have a physical location (shop, office, etc.), enter the address so it appears on Google Maps.
If you’re service-based or mobile, you can skip the physical address and list the areas you serve instead.
Step 5: Add Contact Details
Add your:
Phone number
Website URL (or Facebook page if you don’t have a website yet)
Make sure these match everywhere else online — Google loves consistency.
Step 6: Verify Your Business
Google will ask you to verify your business — usually by mail (they send a postcard with a code).
In some cases, you may be able to verify by email, text, or phone.
Tip: Don’t skip this step — unverified listings won’t appear publicly!
Step 7: Optimise Your Profile
Once verified, log in and polish up your profile:
Upload a clear logo and cover photo
Add business hours and a short business description
Post a few photos of your work, products, or service in action
Add services, pricing, and FAQs if relevant
Businesses with photos get more clicks — and more customers.
Step 8: Start Collecting Reviews
Ask happy clients to leave a Google review with a photo or detail about their experience.
Reviews help you show up higher and give new customers more confidence in choosing you.
Bonus: Reply to each review — it shows you're active and professional.
Why This Matters
A Google Business Profile helps you:
Get found in local searches (e.g., “plumber near me”)
Show up on Google Maps
Build trust with reviews
Look open and professional online
And it’s completely free.
Final Thoughts
If this sounds like a lot — or you don’t have time to do it properly — I offer done-for-you Google Profile services to make sure your business looks great and shows up when people are searching.
📩 Send me a message or visit my services page to get started.