You have a real business, real customers and probably a real coffee addiction. But Google Maps is acting like you are imaginary. Let's fix that.
Meet Luis. He's been fixing air conditioners in the same town for eleven years, and until last spring Google Maps had never heard of him. Here's how to get your business on Google Maps — the same five steps he followed.
1. Find or create your Business Profile
Search your business name on Google Maps. If a listing exists, claim it. If not, create a Google Business Profile using your real business details.
Luis found a half-finished listing a customer had created years ago. Claiming it took ten minutes.
2. Choose the right category
Pick the category that best describes what you actually do. A plumber is not a "miscellaneous superhero," even on busy days.
You can add secondary categories, but the primary one does most of the work.
3. Keep details accurate
Add your phone number, website, hours and service area or storefront address. Use the same basic information on your website.
If you're a service business without a storefront, set a service area instead of showing your home address.
4. Add useful photos and services
Show your work, location or team. List the services people are likely to search for.
Avoid stock photos pretending to be your office. Customers can tell, and Google can too.
5. Keep it active and honest
Update holiday hours, respond to reviews and correct changes. Verification may be required, and visibility is never guaranteed.
A profile that's updated now and then beats a perfect one that's been frozen since 2021.
Google Maps is one doorway to your business. Make sure your website gives visitors a reason to walk through it.
Every Simply500 site comes with Google Business Profile setup included, so the doorway and the house match.
