How to get your business on Google Maps

When someone searches for "plumber near me" or "accountant in Brampton", the businesses shown on the map at the top of Google get most of the calls. That map listing comes from your free Google Business Profile. Here is how to set it up and make it work for you.

1. Create or claim your profile

Go to Google Business Profile and search for your business name. If a listing already exists, claim it. If not, create one. Use your real business name exactly as it appears on your signage and documents. Adding keywords or city names to the name breaks Google's guidelines and can get the listing suspended.

2. Verify it

Google needs to confirm your business is real before it shows the listing properly. Depending on your business, this may be a video recording, a phone or email code, or a postcard. Follow the steps Google offers you; the listing will not perform well until it is verified.

3. Choose the right categories

Your primary category is one of the biggest factors in which searches you appear for. Pick the one that best describes your main service, then add a few secondary categories for other things you genuinely do.

4. Get your name, address and phone number consistent

Your business name, address and phone number should be identical on your profile, your website, social media and directories. Small differences, such as "Unit 5" in one place and "#5" in another, make it harder for Google to trust the information.

5. Fill in everything

• Opening hours, including holiday hours.
• Your service area, if you visit customers instead of having them visit you.
• Services and products, with short descriptions.
• Real photos of your premises, team and work. Add new ones regularly.
• A link to the most relevant page of your website.

6. Ask for reviews, and reply to them

Reviews affect both where you appear and whether people choose you. Ask happy customers for a review right after you finish a job, and make it easy with a direct link. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely and briefly.

7. Keep it active

Post updates, offers and new photos every few weeks, and answer questions people ask on your profile. An active profile tells Google and customers that you are open for business.

When to get help

If your profile is set up but you are still not showing for the searches that matter, the usual causes are a weak website, inconsistent listings across the web, or strong local competition. Our SEO team handles Google Business Profile management as part of local SEO. Book a free call and we will review your profile with you.