How to create a Google Business Account
Posted: Jan 12, 2026 |
Edited: 12 Jan 2026 |
10 minutes read
Many businesses think that having a website or social media page is enough to be visible online. In practice, this belief often leads to lost customers.
When people search for services “near me”, Google usually shows Google Business Profiles before websites. These profiles display reviews, location, photos, and contact options. If your business profile is missing, incomplete, or poorly set up, customers may never even know you exist.
That is why creating a Google Business Profile correctly is essential for any business that depends on local customers.
What Is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile is a free Google service that lets businesses control their visibility on Google Search and Maps.
It acts as a quick decision point for customers. Before visiting your website, people often check:
Your address and business hours
Reviews and ratings
Photos and recent updates
A clear and accurate profile builds trust and supports Local SEO.
Common Problems With Google Business Profile Setup
Many businesses struggle because their profile is not set up properly. Some common issues include:
The business does not appear on Google Maps
Informations such as address or phone number are incorrect
The profile is not verified
The listing exists but receives no calls or visits
Most of these problems happen due to a weak business profile setup and lack of ongoing updates.
Create a Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Step 1: Sign In
Use a Gmail account that will manage the business long-term.
Search for Google Business Profile on Google and click Start now.
Step 2: Add Your Business Name
Enter your official business name.
Avoid adding extra keywords, as Google may flag or suspend your profile.
Step 3: Choose the Right Category
Your primary category helps Google to understand what your business offers.
This choice affects:
How visible your profile is
Which searches you appear for
Your local SEO performance
Pick the category that best matches your main service/offering.
Step 4: Add Address or Service Area
If you have a physical location, enter the full address accurately.
If you provide services at customer locations, define your service areas instead. Correct details help customers find you easily.
Step 5: Add Contact Information
Include your phone number and website.
Make sure this information matches your website and social profiles. Consistency improves trust and visibility.
Step 6: Verify Your Business
Verification proves that the business is real.
Until your profile is verified:
It may not appear publicly
It will not rank well in local results
GMB Optimization: Getting More From Your Profile
Creating a profile is only the first step. GMB optimization helps turn visibility into real customer actions.
Write a Clear Business Description
Explain what you do, where you operate, and who you actually serve.
Use keywords naturally, including Google Business Profile and Local SEO, without overdoing them.
Add Real Photos
Photos increase engagement and trust.
Businesses that upload photos often receive more calls and direction requests.
List Your Services
Adding services helps Google match your profile to relevant searches.
This strengthens your overall business profile setup and local reach.
Manage Reviews
Reviews influence both trust and ranking.
Replying to reviews shows that your business is very active and customer-focused.
How Google Business Profile Helps Local SEO
A well-managed Google Business Profile helps your business:
Appear in local search results
Gain trust through reviews
Get calls and visits without paid ads
For many businesses, this delivers quicker results than SEO alone.
Conclusion
A Google Business Profile should not be treated as a one-time task.
When set up correctly and updated regularly, it becomes a strong local marketing asset. With the right Google Business Profile setup, ongoing GMB optimization, and focus on local SEO, your business can stay visible where customers are actively searching.
Being online is important, but being easy to find is what truly matters.
