How to Set Up and Optimise Your Google Business Profile in 2025 (Even if You’re Not Tech-Savvy)

If you’ve ever Googled a local business and seen a map with reviews, photos, and hours of operation — that’s a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). And yes, your business can have one too — for free.

Whether you run a small café, a photography studio, a law firm, or a plumbing service, having your Google Business listing done right can be the difference between getting found and getting forgotten.

© Google

Why Google Business Matters for Small Businesses

Before we jump into the step-by-step setup, let’s clarify why this matters:

  • Your business will show up on Google Search and Google Maps.

  • It helps you get more calls, website visits, and in-store traffic.

  • It boosts your local SEO, even without a full website.

  • You appear more trustworthy with reviews, photos, and updates.

Fun Fact: Businesses with a complete Google Business profile are 2.7x more likely to be considered reputable and 70% more likely to attract location visits.

Set Up Your Google Business Profile (Step-by-Step)

google business profile-gmb

1. Visit the Google Business Website

If you don’t have one, create a free Gmail account first.

google business profile

2. Enter Your Business Name

Type your registered business name and select the most relevant category from the drop down option. 
Make sure this matches your business name on your website, invoices, and social media — consistency is key for SEO.

3. Your Business Address (Optional But Powerful)

You’ll be asked to choose whether:

  • You serve customers at your business location (e.g., a restaurant),

  • You deliver goods/services to customers (e.g., a mobile mechanic), or

  • Both.

Then, select your primary business category — this is super important!

Pro Tip: Be as specific as possible. Don’t just say “Photographer” if you’re a wedding specialist. Use “Wedding Photographer.”

4. Select If You Provide Services Delivered

If you go to your customers (like tradies or caterers), enter the cities or regions you serve. This helps you show up in the right Google Directory results.

5. Contact Details & Verification (Don’t Skip This!)

Google will ask you to verify your business — usually via:

  • Postcard

  • Phone call

  • Email

⚠️ You won’t show up publicly until verified.

Need help setting up or optimising your Google Business profile?

Fix My Google Business Profile

How to Optimise Your Google Business for SEO

Now let’s talk about the difference between an average profile and one that dominates search.

Non-Optimised Listing

  • Incomplete information

  • No photos or old blurry images

  • Generic or missing business description

  • No updates or posts

  • No customer reviews or responses

🪦 Outcome: Low visibility, fewer clicks, fewer calls.

SEO-Optimised Listing

  • Fully completed profile with accurate NAP
  • High-quality photos of your business, team, and services
  • Strategic business description with keywords like:

      • [Your Service Related Keyword]+[Location]

      • [Your Service Related Keyword]

      • [Your Service Related Keyword]+ [Solution]

  • Frequent Google Posts: Updates, offers, news
  • Active reviews strategy: Asking and replying to reviews
  • Correct categories and service areas

Final Checklist for a Fully-Optimised Google Business Profile

Task Status
Business Name (Correct) ✅
Categories (Primary + Secondary) ✅
Address or Service Area ✅
Phone Number ✅
Website Link ✅
Hours (Including Holidays) ✅
Photos & Logo ✅
Business Description (Keyword-rich) ✅
Google Posts (1–2 per week) ✅
Reviews (Ongoing strategy) ✅
Q&A Section (Seed a few yourself) ✅
Social Links (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) ✅