Why Google Business Profile Matters More Than Ever
In today’s digital world, if your business isn’t on Google, does it even exist?
I’m Oscar Auza, CEO of Brandika, a marketing agency that helps businesses like yours grow through high-impact digital strategies. One of the most powerful yet underutilized tools for local businesses is Google Business Profile (GBP).
Formerly known as Google My Business (GMB), this free tool allows you to appear in Google Search and Google Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find you. A properly optimized GBP can boost your local SEO, increase visibility, and drive more customers to your business.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to create, verify, and optimize your Google Business Profile step by step. Plus, I’ll share my personal insights from working with businesses across the U.S. to maximize their GBP performance.
Let’s get started! 🚀
Step 1: Create a Google Account for Your Business
Before setting up your Google Business Profile, you need a Google account. While many business owners use their personal Gmail, I strongly recommend creating a separate account for your business.
Why?
- It keeps business and personal emails separate.
- It ensures that your GBP remains secure and accessible to your team.
- If you ever sell your business, the account transfer will be much easier.
How to Create a Business Google Account:
- Go to accounts.google.com
- Click Create an account → For work or business
- Choose a custom Gmail address that reflects your business name (e.g., yourbusiness@gmail.com)
- Set up a strong password and complete the verification process
Once your account is ready, you can move on to setting up your Google Business Profile.
Step 2: Setting Up Your Google Business Profile
Now, let’s create your business listing on Google.
Follow these steps:
- Go to google.com/business and sign in with your new Google account.
- Enter your business name – If Google suggests an existing listing, claim it instead of creating a duplicate.
- Select your business type:
- Local Store (Physical location, like a gym, salon, or café)
- Service Area Business (e.g., plumbers, landscapers, consultants who visit clients)
- Online Business (Fully digital services)
Choosing the correct type is crucial for your visibility on Google Maps.
- Enter your business category – Start typing and pick the most relevant one Google suggests. This affects how you rank!
- Add your business address (if applicable) and define your service areas if you visit customers.
- Provide contact details – Phone number and website (if you have one).
🚨 Pro Tip: If your business has multiple locations, create separate Google Business Profiles for each.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Business Category (SEO Tip!)
Google categorizes businesses based on the primary business category you select. This directly impacts your search rankings, so choose wisely.
🔹 Example: If you own a café, select “Coffee Shop” instead of just “Restaurant.”
How to Find the Best Category?
- Search for your competitors on Google Maps.
- See which primary category they use.
- Choose the one that best matches your core service.
Step 4: Verifying Your Google Business Profile (New 2024 Rules)
Verification is a MUST before your business appears on Google Search or Maps.
Google offers several verification methods:
✅ Phone Verification – A call with a verification code.
✅ Postcard Verification – A physical postcard with a code (takes up to 2 weeks).
✅ Email Verification – Available for select businesses.
✅ Video Verification (NEW in 2024) – Google may require you to submit a short video proving your business exists.
How to Pass Video Verification?
If Google requests video verification, you must record a single continuous video showing:
- Your business location (outside signage, street view).
- Your business operations (inside the store, tools, products).
- Proof that you are the owner (unlocking the store, showing invoices).
Many business owners fail this step because they don’t include enough clear evidence. If you need help, Brandika can guide you through the process!
Step 5: Optimizing Your Profile for Maximum Visibility
Setting up your profile is just the beginning. To rank higher in Google Search and Maps, follow these optimization steps:
1️⃣ Add High-Quality Photos
Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks. Upload:
- Exterior and interior shots
- Product or service images
- Team photos (real people build trust!)
2️⃣ Complete Every Section
Fill out:
✅ Business hours (keep them accurate!)
✅ Services and products (add keywords here!)
✅ Business description (750 characters max – no spammy keywords)
3️⃣ Get Reviews & Respond Promptly
- Ask happy customers to leave a review.
- Reply to every review (Google rewards engagement!).
- Address negative reviews professionally.
4️⃣ Post Regular Updates
Use Google Posts to share news, promotions, and events. This keeps your listing active and engaging.
🚀 Need expert help? Brandika can fully optimize your profile for you!
Step 6: Managing and Updating Your Google Business Profile
Google prioritizes active businesses, so keep your profile updated:
✔ Post new photos regularly
✔ Update business hours during holidays
✔ Monitor and respond to customer questions
Set a monthly reminder to refresh your listing!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Creating duplicate listings
🚫 Choosing the wrong category
🚫 Using fake reviews (Google detects and removes them)
🚫 Ignoring negative reviews
🚫 Failing to verify your profile
Final Thoughts: Get More Customers with Google Business Profile
Having a Google Business Profile is NOT optional – it’s essential for local SEO and online visibility.
✅ More traffic
✅ Higher Google rankings
✅ Increased trust from customers
If you want to make sure your profile is fully optimized, verified, and ranking at the top, Brandika can help!
🚀 Let’s grow your business together – contact Brandika today! 🚀
