If you run a local business or a service area business, one of the most important tools for your digital marketing efforts is a Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business). It’s free, powerful, and 100% essential if you want to show up in local search results and bring in more new customers.
So, does your business need one? If customers visit your location or you serve a specific local area, then yes, absolutely.
In this post, we’ll cover:
The benefits of having a Google Business Profile
How to claim an existing profile
How to create a new one if none exists
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is a free online listing that appears when users search for your business or related services on Google Search and Google Maps. It includes your business name, location, hours, contact information, photos, reviews, and more.
Benefits of a Google Business Profile
Here are just a few of the many reasons why every local or service area business should have one:
1. Increased Visibility in Search Results (Local SEO)
Your business is more likely to appear in the Local Map Pack (the top map listings on local Google search results) and on Google Maps when people search for services in your area.
2. Trust Through Google Reviews
Customers can leave reviews directly on your Google Business Profile, helping to build trust with potential clients. Businesses with more reviews tend to get more clicks and calls. Additionally, Google reviews now directly impact search engine rankings and are often prominently featured in search results.
3. Customer Engagement
Your profile allows potential customers to:
Call you with one tap
Get directions
Ask questions
View your latest updates, promotions, or events.
4. Improved SEO
A well-optimized Google Business Profile is vital to your local SEO, helping your website rank higher in search results.
5. Insights and Analytics
Google provides data on how people find your listing, what actions they take (whether it's calls, website visits, or direction requests), and more.
How to Claim an Existing Google Business Profile
If a listing already exists for your business, here’s how to claim it:
Search for your business on Google.
If you see your business listed, click “Own this business?” or “Claim this business.”
Sign in to your Google account.
Follow the prompts to verify that you’re the owner. Google may send a postcard, call, or email with a verification code.
Tip: Be careful not to create a duplicate listing. Always check first before starting from scratch.
How to Create a Google Business Profile from Scratch
If your business doesn't have a profile yet, follow these steps:
1. Access Google Business Profile
Go to business.google.com/add and sign in with your Google account.
2. Enter Business Details
Business Name: Type your business name and click "Add your business to Google" if it doesn't appear.
Business Category: Choose a primary category that best describes your business.
Location: Provide your business address if it's a physical storefront or office.
Service Area: If your business serves customers at their locations, specify your service areas.
3. Add Contact Information
Include your phone number and website URL.
4. Complete Your Profile
Add your business hours, a description of your business, and photos.
Enable messaging so customers can contact you directly from your profile.
5. Verify Your Listing
Choose one of the available verification methods, usually by a postcard in the mail, phone call, or a video submission.
Follow the specific instructions for the chosen method to verify your business.
How to Share Access to Your Google Business Profile with a Marketing Agency (like Roya.com)
If you're working with a digital marketing agency, like Roya.com, giving access to your Google Business Profile allows them to help you manage and optimize it effectively, without giving away your personal Google login credentials.
Here’s how to share manager access securely:
Step-by-Step: Add a Marketing Agency as a Manager
Sign in to your Google Account, and go to your Business Profile.
Find your Business Profile by searching for your business name on Google.
Access Settings: On the Business Profile panel, click the three-dots menu (More) and select "Business Profile settings".
Navigate to Users: In the menu that appears, click on "People and access".
Add a User: Click the "Add" button.
Enter Email: Type the email address of the person or team you want to invite.
Choose a Role: Select "Manager"
Send the Invitation!
Why Give an Agency Access?
Marketing professionals, like our team at Roya.com, can:
Assist with profile verification
Keep your profile up to date with accurate business info
Post regular updates, promotions, or events
Monitor and respond to reviews professionally
Analyze performance metrics to improve local SEO
By working with marketing experts, like Roya.com, you can make sure your Google Business Profile is always optimized, helping your business rank higher in local search results and Google Maps.
Conclusion
If you’re a local or service area business, not having a Google Business Profile is like being invisible to nearby customers searching online. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your online presence and attract more customers.
Need help optimizing or setting up your profile? Reach out to us at Roya.com, and we’ll make sure your business stands out in local search results.
