How to create a Google Business Profile for your business in 30 seconds: A step by step guide
If you're running a local business, getting found on Google Search and Maps is essential for attracting new customers.
Creating a Google Business Profile is completely free and it puts your business front and centre when local customers are searching for your services.
Here's a straightforward, step by step guide to getting your profile live and ready for action.
Step 1: Head to the Google Business Profile website
First, go to business.google.com and click the "Create your profile" button.
Step 2: Sign in to your Google account
Sign in using your Google account details. If you don't have a dedicated business account yet, it's best to set one up so everything remains professional and organised.
Step 3: Enter your business name
Type in your exact business name. If you're establishing your brand identity like One Man Band Marketing, make sure it matches your trading name consistently.
Step 4: Choose your business type
Select the category that best describes how you operate:
Online retail: Customers can purchase products directly through your website.
Local store: Customers can visit your physical premises in person.
Service business: Your business travels or makes visits directly to customers.
Step 5: Select your business category
Choose a primary category that defines your industry (such as Plumber, Marketing Consultant, or Cafe). Don't worry, you can always add more categories later.
Step 6: Add your service areas
If you visit customers rather than hosting them at a physical shopfront, type in the locations and areas where you offer your services.
Step 7: Provide contact details
Add your phone number and website URL so prospective clients can easily get in touch.
You can also set up customer chat options if you want people to reach you via text messaging.
Step 8: Complete your registration
Once you finish these details, your profile will be generated. It will then appear on Google Search and Maps, enabling local customers to find you, contact you and read your reviews.
What to do next after creating your Google Business Profile?
Setting up your profile is just the beginning. Once your listing is live, you'll want to keep it active and fully optimised to beat your competitors.
Depending on your specific industry, you can dive deeper into tailored optimisation strategies. For example, if you run a hospitality venue, take a look at this guide on How to optimise your cafe's google business profile for coffee near me searches.
To ensure your listing continues generating leads over time, establish a consistent management routine by following A 10 minute daily routine for your google business profile.
