GoogleSiteScore

Google Business Profile Checklist

Your free listing on Google Maps is the #1 way local customers find you. Here's how to make it work.

  1. Claim your profile

    Visit google.com/business and search for your business. Verify ownership by mail, phone, or video.

  2. Add the right category

    Pick the most specific primary category (e.g., 'Italian restaurant' not just 'Restaurant').

  3. Fill every field

    Hours, address, phone, website, services, attributes. Empty fields hurt your ranking.

  4. Add 10+ photos

    Include exterior, interior, team, and product photos. Refresh monthly.

  5. Write a strong description

    750 characters. Include what you do, who you serve, and your area — naturally.

  6. List your services

    Add every service you offer with a short description and price (if comfortable).

  7. Enable messaging

    Let customers chat with you directly from your listing.

  8. Post weekly updates

    Offers, events, or news. Google rewards active profiles.

  9. Ask for reviews

    Send a review link to happy customers. Reply to every review — good or bad.

  10. Use Q&A proactively

    Add your own FAQs as questions and answer them publicly.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions small business owners ask us most.

Yes. Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is 100% free. It's the most important free local SEO asset any small business owns.
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