Get found on Google
When someone nearby types what you sell, you want your business to show up. This guide shows you how, one small step at a time. You don't need to be good with computers.
See what people see
Open Google on your phone. Type what you sell and your city, like "barber Brooklyn" or "restaurant Miami". Look at the map and the businesses under it. That is where your customers look first. Is your business there?
Try this Take a screenshot of what you see. In a month, look again and compare.
Claim your Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile is a free page about your business. It is generally for businesses that meet customers in person; check Google's eligibility rules first. Search for your business name. Claim an existing profile, or add one at business.google.com if your business qualifies and no profile exists. Follow the verification options Google shows for your business. It may ask for a video or another method.
Try this Use the name on your sign, with nothing extra added.
Fill every box
A full profile looks like a real business that is open. Add what you sell, your hours, your phone, your website link and the area you serve. Pick the right main category, like "Barber shop" or "Caterer". If you are closed on Sunday, say so. Add one short line about what makes you special.
Try this A holiday is coming? Change your hours before it starts.
Show real photos
People trust what they can see. Add a photo of your front door, your inside, your best work and your team. Use your phone, in daylight. Add new ones every few weeks so your page looks alive.
Try this Our guide "Photos that sell, with your phone" shows you how.
Same name, address and phone everywhere
Your customers see your business in many places: Google, Facebook, Instagram, your website, online lists. Write your name, address and phone number the same way everywhere. "Main St." in one place and "Main Street" in another can confuse people. Pick one way and copy it every time.
Try this Write your name, address and phone on a note. Copy from that note.
Ask for reviews and answer them
Reviews help new customers understand other people's experiences. After a visit or completed job, invite customers to leave an honest review, whether their experience was positive or negative. Make it optional. Respond to each review, thank the customer and address any concerns.
Try this Our guide "More 5-star reviews" shows you what to say.
Picture this
Picture a barber named Jean. He claims his shop's Google Business Profile, completes the verification steps Google provides and adds his hours, phone number and ten photos of his work. After each visit, he offers the same optional invitation to leave an honest review. People who find his profile can check the shop's details and choose whether to call.
Do this today
Tap each one when you have done it.
0 of 6 done
Now give people a website that fits
Your Google profile can help people find your website. We can design its first page and show you a free preview, so you can see it before you decide whether to continue.
Get a free design of your first pageEmail me this guide
Leave your email to request the guide link. You can also read the full guide on this page.
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