What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is like a free store listing on Google. When someone searches for a business like yours, your profile shows up with your hours, address, and photos.
Here’s why a Google business profile is non-negotiable.
Think of it like a free billboard for your business. Google puts it right in front of people who are looking for what you sell.
Why Do I Need One?
Without a Google Business Profile, people can’t find you easily. When customers search for your type of business in your area, you won’t show up.
It’s like having a store with no sign on the door. People don’t know you exist.
What Happens if Someone Else Claims Your Profile?
Here’s the scary part. If you don’t claim your business profile, someone else might do it for you. This could be a competitor or just a random person.
Once they claim it, they control what customers see. They could put wrong hours. They could write bad things about you. You lose control of your own business.
How Do I Claim My Profile?
It’s actually really simple. Go to Google Business Profile website. Search for your business name. Click on your business when you find it.
Then click “Claim This Business.” Google will ask you to verify it’s really you. You might get a postcard in the mail. You enter the code from the postcard into Google.
That’s it. You now own your profile.
What If My Business Isn’t Listed Yet?
If your business doesn’t show up when you search, you can create a new profile. Just go to Google Business Profile and click “Create a Business Profile.”
Fill in your business name, address, phone number, and type of business. Google will help you through the rest.
What Comes Next?
Once you claim your profile, you need to keep it updated. Add your hours. Add photos of your business. Make sure your phone number and address are correct.
This is just the beginning. Your Google Business Profile is the foundation of local SEO. Everything else builds from here.
See Why Google Business Profile is Non-Negotiable
The Bottom Line
Claiming your Google Business Profile is the first thing you must do. Don’t wait. Do it today.
Someone else might be waiting to claim it. Get there first. Protect your business online.
Great SEO Takes Time.
(Time You Might Not Have!)
Running a local business is a full-time job. While these tips are designed to be quick wins, building a complete local dominance strategy takes consistent effort. If you’d rather spend your time serving customers than tweaking keywords, we’re here to help.
No high-pressure sales tactics. Just a friendly chat about your goals.