Google Business Profile is an important tool for business owners to use when working to rank their local businesses on Google Maps. Without GBP, businesses are not featured in the local Google Maps Pack.  Owning your 'SEO' from your backyard and beyound is a fundamental practice in helping you GET FOUND for all the RIGHT Reasons!

The essential first step towards local SEO success is to create a Google Business Profile for your business. It is fundamental to set up your Google business profile in the proper format. In this short explanation, we will show you the key steps of how to set up a Google business profile. 

What is a Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile is a free online listing for all businesses. A company can provide details about its business hours, services, and photos of products. 

Why Should I Create a Google Business Profile?
Creating a Google Business Profile is a great way to increase the visibility of your business across Google services. Information about your services will appear in Google searches. 

Is Google Business Profile Available to Everyone?
Only to businesses who have a physical location and contact with customers. Businesses that have an online platform and no physical location cannot use a Google Business Profile.

12 Quick Steps on How to Create a Google Business Profile (GBP):

Step 1: Create a Google Business Account
First, you need to create an existing Google account. Either use an existing email or set up a new one. Select ‘create an account’ at accounts.google.com to get started. 

Step 2: Take a Look at Google Business Profile Gateway 
Once you have set up your new Google account, click ‘Manage now’ at google.com/business. 

Step 3: Look for the Business
Type in a business name in the profile. See if the profile or the business name already exists. If the business does not appear when you type it then click ‘’Add Your Business in Google’. Not to worry if someone has already created Google Business Profile for your business. Request that management of the profile is handed over to you. Get guided through the process by clicking ‘Request Access’. 

Step 4: Add the Business Name and Category
Now, it is time to add your business name and category. Use the exact name of your business so that it matches the official business name. Don’t add keywords that violate Google’s guidelines.  Next, choose the category that matches your business. If you’re not completely sure, don’t fret. You can go back and make changes later on. 

Step 5: What’s the Physical Location of the Business?
You’ll need to share the address of your business if you have a physical location. If the business only operates online, then you should select ‘no’.  For businesses with a physical location, provide the address. Give an accurate address to prevent any confusion to customers or other businesses. 

Step 6: Does Your Business Provide Home Deliveries?
If your business delivers items to customers, select ‘yes’ for the next step.  After selecting ‘yes’, enter the areas that the business serves and delivers to. You’ll be able to make edits to the information about locations later. 

Step 7: Adding Contact Details
Next, it is time to add contact details for the business.  Enter the phone number, and add the business website. It’s okay if your business does not have a business website yet. You can add the URL later once you have created a page. 

Step 8: Verify the Business
For this step, you’ll be required to select a verification method to confirm the business is working at the specified address. Most do it by phone or email, but you can also receive a postcard to the business address. 

**Verifying by Phone
Some businesses can verify accounts over the phone. This option isn’t available to everyone. If you’re eligible, then you’ll receive a code via an automated phone call.

**Postcard Verification
Postcard verification is available to all businesses. A postcard is sent out to the business address. It will usually arrive within five days.  The postcard contains a code that must be entered into the appropriate place within the GBP account. If you don’t obtain the postcard, then you can request a replacement.

**Email Verification
You can verify by confirming your business email address. An immediate email will be sent by Google, hit the link and you should be good to go.

Step 9: Add Your Business Hours 
If you’re a growing business then it is essential to add your business hours. Potential customers should know when they can visit or contact you.  Make sure that the hours you specify are accurate. Always edit business hour information if any of your hours ever change. 

Step 10: Adding Messaging
Connect with your audiences by accepting messages from potential customers. It drives sales. However, only enable this function if you can commit to managing it consistently.   
PTM Tip: Always answer messages. Being unresponsive puts a bad rep on your business. It will create a poor user experience. Being unresponsive could harm your business reputation.

Step 11: Adding the Description of Your Business
So consumers know that your business is a good fit for their needs, provide a description for your business. Write up to 750 characters. Use this opportunity to put the most important information in. Keep it clear and concise. 

Step 12: Adding Photos
Add a photo to help customers visualize your business. Provide several of your own photos encasing different aspects of the business. Another good idea is to show other physical features of where you are located. 

Be on the lookout for our next blog post on How to Optimize your Google Business Profile.