11 Simple Steps to Add a Business in Google Maps

Is your business missing from Google Maps? That’s like having an invisible storefront. No matter how great your business is, people won’t find it if they can’t see it.

Getting your business on Google Maps changes that. You show up when nearby customers search for services you offer. And it comes complete with directions, contact details, and everything else they need to choose you.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to add a business in Google Maps step-by-step and make it work harder for your bottom line.

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What are Google Business Profiles (formerly known as Google My Business)?

Your Google Business Profile is a digital storefront on Google Maps and Google Search. When someone looks up your business name or looks for companies like yours on Google Maps, your business listing shows them everything they need to know. 

Think about what customers want to see before visiting your Google Business Profile on Google Maps. At a minimum, this includes your business address, phone number, and hours. A Google Business Profile puts all this business information front and center. Plus, you can add photos that show off your location and services.

After verifying your business on Google Maps, you’ll be able to manage your listing. You can update with the latest information, add new photos, and more.

The cherry on the sundae: Setting up a Google Business Profile on Google Maps is completely free.

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How To Add a Business in Google Maps

Creating a Google Business Profile on Google Maps is a straightforward process. Here’s how to get your business on Google:

1. Sign Into or Create Your Google Account

Learning how to create a Google Business page starts with logging in to your Google account.

If you don’t have a Google account yet, you can create one for free. You’ll choose between a regular account or a business account. Business accounts have a monthly fee but come with extra features like advanced appointment scheduling. They also make it easier to set up your Google Business Profile.

2. Navigate To the Google Business Profile Page

The simplest way to get a Google Maps business listing is to head to the Google Business Profile page. Click “Manage now,” and you’re off to the races. You can also go to Google Maps, right click on the general area of your business location, and select “Add your business.”

3. Enter Your Business Info

Your business information includes:

• Business name
• Business type
• Category, such as “Plumbing business” or “Roofing company”
• Business address
• Location (by placing a pin on the map)
• Phone number and website (optional but smart to include)
• Opting in or out of Google Business Profile newsletters

If you make a mistake, it’s no big deal. You can update your business info at any time.

4. Verify Your Business

You can choose to verify later, but it’s best to get this done as soon as possible since it’s so important. There are a few options for verifying your Google Business Profile:

Phone Verification

Choose the phone option, enter your number, and click “Next.” This number won’t be listed on your public profile. So, you can use your business phone or your personal phone.

On the next page, you can choose to verify that you manage the business by getting a code via text or a voice call. Enter the code you receive, and you’re all set.

Video Verification

If you choose the video option, you’ll film it on your mobile device directly through Google’s platform. You’ll need to:

• Prove the location of your business by filming street signs, landmarks, or other nearby local features
• Provide evidence that your business really exists by filming inside, as well as capturing something like a signpost or wall hanging that has your business name on it
• Show proof of management with actions like unlocking the store or entering employee-only areas

Postcard verification

For some businesses, you may be required to use the postcard option for verification. You’ll get a postcard with a verification code at your business address. Enter the code online to finish verifying your account. Postcards typically take about two weeks to arrive.

5. Add Services

Next, you’ll let potential customers know what you do. Google will provide some suggestions based on the business type you selected, and you can enter custom services that aren’t on the list. When you’re done, hit “Next.”

6. Add Your Hours

Enter your business hours. Be sure to double-check them. Customers hate showing up to a storefront only to find that you’re closed when your listed hours show that you should be open. Click “Next” when you’re done.

7. Enter Your Business Description

Describe your business in 750 characters or less. Make it compelling and complete. Then hit “Next.”

8. Add Photos

Adding photos lends your Google Maps listing a more personal touch. Customers get an idea of what your business premises are like. This makes it easier to recognize the building when they visit, too. As usual, click “Next” when you’re finished.

9. Accept or Reject a $500 Advertising Credit

Google offers a $500 Google Ads credit for new Google Business Profiles. Accepting the credit will take you to the Google Ads page, where you can start setting up a campaign.

10. Customize Your Profile

Choose whether you want to configure a custom domain name and email address for your Google Business Profile. Clicking “Try Google Workspace” will take you to another page to begin setup.

On the following page, you’ll get a reminder that you can update your info whenever you need.

Click “Continue” to move on.

11. Wrapping Up

With that, your Google Business Profile is up and running! You’ll be taken to your Google Business Profile dashboard, where you can preview how your business will show up when users search for it. You can also check your reviews, add links to social media accounts, and even manage bookings.

Setting up your Google Business Profile with a physical address automatically places you on Google Maps. You’ll also see a mini-map showing what your listing looks like on Google Maps. Click on it to expand and make sure everything looks good.

Advantages of Adding a Business in Google Maps

Adding a business to Google Maps gets you on the map, but that’s not all it does. Here’s what a thorough Google Business Profile can do:

• Makes You Visible. Adding a business in Google Maps helps with search engine optimization (SEO). When people search Google Maps for local businesses, your business listing will appear together with all your important details. That means potential customers can find your business address, phone number, and hours right away.
• Build Trust Through Reviews. Your Google Business Profile lets satisfied customers share their experiences. Responding to reviews professionally shows new customers they can count on you.
• Track Your Success. You’ll be able to see exactly how many people find your business on Google Maps and what they do next. These insights help you understand how your Google Business Profile performs and what gets customers through the door.

3 Best Tips for Optimizing Your Google Maps Listing

Here are some of the most important things to keep up with to help your business stand out on Google Maps:

Post Regular Updates

Use your Google Business Profile to share news, special offers, and events. Fresh content helps your business listing catch attention on Google Maps and shows customers you stay active.

Keep Your Visuals Fresh

It’s smart to have good photos on your Google Business Profile to help more people notice it. Start with your logo and a strong cover photo. Then, add pictures of your location, products, or services. Update these regularly to keep your profile up to date.

Double-Check the Details

Make sure your business information stays current. This includes:

• Your business name and category
• Your business address and phone number
• Hours and service area
• A complete description of what you offer

When all these details match across your business listings, customers are more likely to see you as consistent and reliable.

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