When someone searches for a business like yours nearby, Google often shows a map and three businesses before any website. Your Google Business Profile decides whether you're one of them. Here are twelve settings and habits that make a real difference.
Why your profile matters
Google's own research found that most people who search on their phone for something nearby visit a related business within a day, and a meaningful share of those searches lead to a purchase. Your profile is often the first impression, before anyone sees your website.
The 12-point checklist
- Claim and verify your profile. Only a verified owner can edit it properly and reply to reviews.
- Use your real business name. Don't add keywords or locations to the name; it can get your profile suspended.
- Pick the most accurate primary category. This is one of the strongest signals. Add relevant secondary categories too.
- Keep name, address and phone consistent. Use exactly the same details on your website, social profiles and directories.
- Set accurate hours, including holidays. Wrong hours lead to bad reviews.
- Add your website and a booking or enquiry link. Make it easy to take the next step.
- Write a clear description. Explain what you do and who you serve in plain language, without stuffing keywords.
- List your services and products. With short descriptions and prices where you can.
- Upload real photos. Your storefront, inside, team and work. Real photos build more trust than stock images.
- Turn on messaging if you can answer quickly. Slow replies hurt more than no messaging.
- Ask happy customers for reviews. Make it easy with a direct review link, and never pay for or fake reviews.
- Reply to every review. Thank people for good ones; answer critical ones calmly and helpfully.
Weekly habits that keep you visible
- Post an update, offer or event once a week.
- Add a few new photos every month.
- Answer questions in the Q&A section.
- Check the profile for edits suggested by others and correct anything wrong.
Mistakes to avoid
- Creating duplicate profiles for the same location.
- Using a virtual office or PO box address where Google doesn't allow it.
- Buying reviews or offering rewards in exchange for positive ones.
- Letting the profile go quiet for months.
Your profile and your website work best together: the profile gets you noticed, and a fast, clear website turns that interest into an enquiry. Our SEO and Google visibility service includes Google Business Profile setup and optimisation.