If your business does not have a Google Business Profile, you are invisible to the majority of local customers searching for what you offer right now. Setting one up takes about 20 minutes and is the highest-ROI marketing action available to any local business. Here is the exact step-by-step process.
Step 1 — Go to Google Business Profile
Go to business.google.com and click 'Manage now.' Sign in with your Google account — or create one if you don't have one. Use the Google account you want associated with your business long-term.
Step 2 — Enter Your Business Name
Type your exact business name as it appears on your signage and other marketing materials. Consistency matters — Google cross-references your business name across the web. If your business already appears in Google's database, you will see it as an option to claim. If not, you will create a new listing.
Step 3 — Choose Your Business Category
Select the primary category that best describes your business. This is one of the most important ranking factors in local search — choose the most specific and accurate category available. You can add additional categories later. A plumbing company should choose 'Plumber,' not 'Home Services' — specificity beats generality.
Step 4 — Add Your Location
If customers visit your physical location, enter your address. If you serve customers at their locations (like a plumber or landscaper), select 'I deliver goods and services to my customers' and enter your service area instead. You can add both if applicable.
Step 5 — Add Contact Information
Enter your phone number and website URL. These must be accurate — Google verifies this information against other web sources. Use a local phone number rather than a toll-free number whenever possible for local ranking signals.
Step 6 — Verify Your Business
Google requires verification to prevent fraudulent listings. The most common method is a postcard mailed to your business address containing a verification code — this typically takes 5-7 days. Some businesses qualify for phone or email verification, which is instant.
Step 7 — Complete Your Profile
After verification, complete every field: business hours, business description (750 characters — use all of them), services offered, products if applicable, attributes (veteran-owned, women-led, etc.), and upload at least 10 high-quality photos. The more complete your profile, the higher Google ranks it in local search.
Stone Digital sets up and optimizes Google Business Profiles for local businesses across East Texas as part of every package. Book a free discovery call.