In a world that is driven by digital means, learning how to make a business profile on Google has become a necessity rather than an option for any business that wants to be seen in local searches, draw in customers from your vicinity, and gain trust on the web. No matter if you have a retail store in Patna, a small startup, or a service-providing business, Google Business Profile (which was previously known as Google My Business) is the digital face of your business, making it easy for customers to spot you when they search on the map or through Google.
This how-to guide will take you through the steps of making a Google business profile, the ways to optimize your profile for better ranking, and the mistakes that businesses should not make. Take your time and go through each part of the guide to create a solid online presence.
Why Every Business Needs a Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile, which was previously known as Google My Business, is considered one of the best free options for the visibility of local businesses. Understanding how to make a business profile on Google allows you to appear when customers search for services “near me,” which dramatically improves foot traffic and inquiries.
- Main Reasons Why Your Business Needs It
- Visibility on Google Search and Google Maps is increased
- Customers find the most important details like phone number, hours, and location
- Trust is created by means of reviews and ratings
- Local SEO ranking is improved.
Customers can reach you at once through call, message, or directions.
If you are figuring out how to set up a Google Business Profile for the first time or making an existing one better, this profile is a must for your business.
How To Make a Business Profile On Google (Step-By-Step Guide)
The methods listed below are verified for setting up and validating your Google Business account. These are the steps suggested for everyone creating a Google Business account or learning the basics of local listings.
Go to the Manager of Google Business Profile
The very first thing that you have to do is to go to Google Business Profile Manager and log in using your Gmail.
This is the first step in how to make a business profile on Google.
Input Your Business Name
You have the option of either creating a new name or taking one that is already in the list of businesses.
Just to clarify, the name should be exactly what the business is called, no keywords or unfriendly names.
Select Your Business Category
Opt for the category that most appropriately illustrates your business.
For instance:
- Beauty salon
- Digital marketing agency
- Bakery
- Plumber
This step helps Google understand what services you offer.
Add Your Location
If you really want to be visible to customers on Google Maps, then this is a must-do step.
In contrast, you may indicate your areas of service in case your business is service-oriented.
Add Contact Information
- Phone number
- Website link (if available)
- WhatsApp link (optional but helpful)
Add Operating Hours
The hours should be correct and frequently updated.
Verify Your Business
Authentication indicates that your business exists.
Google provides different options:
- Postcard by mail
- Phone
- Video verification
This step is crucial in how to make a business profile on Google successfully.
Add Photos and Business Details
- Logo
- Cover photo
- Shop/office pictures
- Team photos
- Product photos
Photos increase profile engagement and build trust.
Google Business Profile Optimisation Tips for Better Visibility
Google Business Profile Optimisation Tips for Better Visibility
After you’ve learned how to make a business profile on Google, the next logical step would be to optimize it. A top-notch listing will get to the top of the local search results in Google faster.
1. Use Complete Business Information
You need to provide information for every section, such as
- Business description
- Attributes (e.g., women-led, wheelchair accessible)
- Products or services
- Booking link (if applicable)
2. Add a Keyword-Optimised Description
Make use of secondary keywords in a natural way, such as
- How to set up a Google Business Profile
- Google Business Profile optimisation
- Steps to make a Google Business listing
- Optimize Google Business for local ranking
3. Post Regular Updates
Be sure to use the “Posts” feature to keep your audience informed about:
- Offers
- Events
- Service updates
- Blog links
4. Encourage Customer Reviews
Better ratings lead to better ranking.
Always reply to reviews—whether they are good or bad.
5. Add High-Quality Photos Consistently
Listings with constant image uploads enjoy Google’s preference.
Benefits of Appearing on Google Maps and Local Search
Knowing how to create a business profile on Google unlocks the tremendous potential of the Google Maps ranking.
Major Benefits
- Quicker customer discovery
- Increased phone contacts and visitors
- Greater likelihood of being in “Local Pack”
- Digital authority is created
- Helps customers to have a good impression of your business right away
- More nearby searches conversions
Small businesses in localities like Patna, Ranchi, Kolkata, Delhi, and tier-2 cities can achieve a great deal of growth through the right optimisation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Google Business Listing
Despite being taught how to make a business profile on Google, still, a lot of the business owners are still making wrong moves that detrimentally affect their position.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Using incorrect or inconsistent NAP (Name-Address-Phone)
- Choosing unrelated categories
- Keyword stuffing the business name
- Uploading low-quality images
- Not responding to customer reviews
- Leaving business hours outdated
- Ignoring Google Posts
Fixing these issues boosts local visibility right away.
Case Study Examples
Case Study 1: Local Bakery
The bakery located in Patna meticulously updated its Google Business Profile with fresh images, promotion of the weekend events, and constant posting. A significant increase of 35% in calls was observed along with a 25% increase in visitations within the span of 60 days.
Case Study 2: Home Service Provider
The plumber who had his service areas laid out correctly and his business verified through Google was the one who got his Local 3-Pack spot with a 40% increase in inquiries owing to the constant reviews.
Case Study 3: New Startup
The digital marketing startup had an elaborate profile made with all the necessary services and keywords. They included Google Posts on a weekly basis, which led to the visibility increasing by 50%.
Read also: How to Set Up a Google Business Profile
FAQs on How To Make a Business Profile On Google
1. How can I set up a Google Business Profile?
Access the Google Business Profile Manager, input your company information, pick your category, confirm your profile, and lastly, share pictures.
2. What is the significance of Google Business Profile?
Your company will show on the map of Google; at the same time, it can be trusted more, the number of calls will be increased, and your business will be ranked higher in local searches.
3. What are the ways I can authenticate my Google Business Profile?
A postcard, phone call, email, or video can be used by Google for validation. Validation guarantees that your company is real.
4. What steps do I take to get the most out of my Google Business Profile?
Provide thorough information, to get the most out of it, share pictures, publish updates every week, and ask for customer feedback.
5. Is it possible to have a Google Business Profile if there is no physical store?
Indeed, you have to choose “service-area business” and specify the locations that you serve.
Final Thoughts
The classic and sometimes painful way of thinking that the only way to gain customers is to make a business profile on Google is changing gradually. The main reason for this change is that the Google Business Profile tool, though free, has a strong enough influence to transform your local presence from visibility on Google Maps to the trust built through reviews. The moment you create and optimise your profile, a drastic increase in customer engagement and local ranking will be your instant reward.