Check whether your business is eligible
A Google Business Profile can help customers find your business through Google Search and Maps. Creating a profile is free, but not every business is eligible. Generally, you must receive customers in person or serve them at their location. Businesses operating entirely online are usually outside these requirements. Check Google’s current guidelines before starting. Also search for your business name before creating a profile. A listing may already exist that you can claim; creating a second profile can cause confusion.
Use a business Google account
Sign in with a Google account controlled by your business. Agree on who owns the profile and who needs access. Store recovery details securely and enable two-step verification where possible. An external provider should not be the sole owner of your profile. Open Google Business Profile and enter your genuine business name as customers know it. Do not add extra keywords or place names simply to improve rankings. Then select the category that best describes your work. Additional categories can be added when they are genuinely relevant.
Add location and contact details
Do you have a location customers can visit during business hours? Enter the correct address and check the map position. If you work at customers’ premises, for example as an installer, specify an appropriate service area and follow the rules for hiding a non-public address. Add your phone number and website, ensuring they match your site. Provide opening hours you can actually maintain. Special hours can be set for holidays or temporary changes so customers do not arrive to find your business closed.
Complete verification carefully
Google determines which verification methods are available. These may include video, a phone call, email or another method. Options vary by business and can change. Follow the instructions shown in your account and provide only accurate information. Do not store verification codes in public documents or share them with strangers. Verification does not mean every change becomes visible immediately. Google may carry out additional checks. If you get stuck, use the official support information rather than repeatedly creating a new profile.
Keep the profile useful and current
Add a short business description, services and genuine photos. Explain what customers can expect without unsupported claims. After completing work, ask for an honest review and respond calmly to feedback. Do not buy reviews or post ratings on behalf of customers. Check your profile regularly for changed details and answer relevant questions. A well-maintained profile does not replace a good website, but it helps visitors take the next step. Make sure your website has a clear contact page and track enquiries that actually arrive. Start simply and keep the information reliable.