If you run a business, especially a local one, setting up a Google Place profile is one of the easiest and most important things you can do to get found online. It helps people discover your business when they search on Google or Google Maps, and it gives you control over what they see — like your hours, address, website, and photos.
The best part? It’s free, and it only takes about 15 minutes to set up.
Here’s how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Sign in to Google Business Profile
Start by going to google.com/business and signing in with your Google account. If you don’t have a Google account yet, you’ll need to create one.
Once you’re logged in, click the button that says “Manage now.”
Step 2: Enter your business name
Type in your business name exactly as you want it to appear. If your business already exists in Google’s system, you may see it pop up as a suggestion — especially if someone else added it or left a review. If it shows up, you can claim it. If not, go ahead and enter it as a new business.
Step 3: Choose your business type
This helps Google understand what your business does. You’ll want to be as accurate as possible here. Start typing, and Google will give you options to choose from. Pick the one that fits best. It will only present three options: Online retail, local store, and service business.
Don’t worry if your category isn’t super specific. You can add more details later.
Step 4: Add your online store
In this step you'll add your businesses web address. Just copy and paste the url.
Step 5: Enter your business category
This helps Google understand what your business does. You’ll want to be as accurate as possible here. Start typing, and Google will give you options to choose from. Pick the one that fits best — for example, “Bakery,” “Hair Salon,” or “Marketing Consultant.”
Don’t worry if your category isn’t super specific. You can add more details later.
Step 6: Add your location (if customers visit you)
If you have a physical location that people visit — like a store, office, or clinic — say yes when asked if you want to add a location. Then enter your address.
Google will usually ask you to place a pin on a map to double-check your location. This is especially important if you’re in a shopping plaza or office building where multiple businesses share an address.
If you work from home or don’t serve customers in person, you can skip this part.
Step 7: Add your contact details
Add a phone number that you're ok with customers calling. This step can be skipped if you don't have or want to give a business number.
Step 8: Agree to the Terms and Add your Services
Setting up your profile is step one. Once it’s live, make it work harder for you by:
- Add the services your business provides
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Adding photos of your storefront, products, or services
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Writing a short business description
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Posting updates, events, or special offers
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Collecting and responding to customer reviews
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Adding and updating your hours regularly, especially around holidays
These small steps help build trust and make your business more appealing in search results.
Final thoughts
Creating a Google Place profile is one of the simplest ways to boost your visibility online. It helps you show up when people search for the kinds of services you offer, and it gives potential customers a reason to choose you over the competition.
If you want help setting up your profile or learning how to improve your overall digital strategy, book a free inbound marketing assessment with Melanie. She’ll walk you through it and help you uncover opportunities to grow your presence online.
