1. Sign in (or create) your Google Account
- Go to business.google.com and click “Manage now.”
- Use your business email if possible—for better brand consistency and access control
2. Add or Claim Your Business
- Select Add your business to Google on business.google.com/add or search your business via Google Maps and click “Own this business” if it appears
- Your eligibility depends on whether you make face-to-face contact with customers, like visits or storefronts
3. Enter Your Business Information
Complete all fields accurately to help Google understand your business:
- Business name (use your legal or commonly used business name)
- Primary category, plus relevant secondary categories (max. 9)
- Address or service area: specify if you serve clients at your location or at theirs
- Phone number and website URL
4. Verify Your Business
Google offers several verification methods: postcard, phone, email, or video. Choose your preferred option and follow the steps. You can’t make public edits until verified
5. Set Up a Google Voice Number
A local Google Voice business number adds credibility and aligns with your profile’s location.
- Visit voice.google.com and sign in (use the same Google account)
- Choose “For business” (paid) or free personal number
- Pick a local area code, ideally matching your service region
- Link your mobile device to receive calls and voicemails
- Add this number to your GBP under the Phone section
This ensures a consistent local NAP and gives you spam protection and transcription tools.
6. Optimize Your Profile Info
- Business description: craft it to highlight what you do, who you serve, and what makes you special
- Photos: include logo, exterior/interior shots, team images, and offerings
- Hours, attributes (e.g., “women-owned”), or opening date—the more details, the more trust
7. Leverage Profile Features
- Google Posts: share updates, offers, and events regularly
- Messaging: allow customers to message you directly
- Q&A & Reviews: actively manage both—encourage reviews and respond promptly
8. Monitor Calls & Insights
- Call history can be viewed within the GBP dashboard
- Insights tab shows how users found your profile and what actions they took
9. Maintain & Update
- Keep hours, services, and photos up to date
- Regularly add new Posts, reply to reviews, and update info
- Occasionally check for unwanted edits from users (“Suggest an edit”)
✅ Quick Action Checklist
- Google account ready
- Business added or claimed
- Correct info + profile verified
- Google Voice number set up & added
- All profile fields optimized
- Posts, messaging, and reviews enabled
- Regular updates and monitoring scheduled