For many local and service businesses, the Google Business Profile is the first thing a potential customer sees — often before your website. A complete, active profile builds trust and helps you appear in Maps and local results.
The essentials
- Business name exactly as it appears in the real world — no extra keywords.
- Primary category that best describes your core service, plus relevant secondary categories.
- Address or service area configured correctly for how you operate.
- Phone number and website that match the details on your site.
- Hours, including holiday hours, kept up to date.
Content that builds confidence
- Services listed clearly with short descriptions.
- Business description that explains what you do, who you help and where.
- Photos of your work, team, premises or vehicles — real images, added regularly.
- Posts sharing updates, offers or useful tips on a sustainable schedule.
Reviews and questions
- Ask satisfied customers for reviews using a simple link — never offer incentives or post fake reviews.
- Respond to every review professionally, positive or negative.
- Monitor the Questions & Answers section and provide accurate answers.
Consistency everywhere
Make sure your business name, address and phone number are consistent across your website, social profiles and directories. Consistency helps search engines — and AI assistants — trust your information.
Measure what matters
Review profile insights regularly: calls, website clicks and direction requests show whether your visibility is turning into action.
See our Google Business Profile Optimization service or learn about Local SEO.