A Step-by-Step Tutorial on Registering Your Business with Google 2025

You can easily get your business listed on Google by setting up a Google Business Profile (GBP), previously known as Google My Business (GBM). In this article, you'll learn how to list your company on Google to achieve results and identify key errors to steer clear of along the way.

What is a Google Business Profile?

Google Business Profile is a tool that allows you to control how your business is displayed in Google Search and Maps results—and best of all, it's free of charge.

If you have a hardware store, utilizing this tool can help your shop appear in search results when people nearby look for "hardware store near me" or "top hardware store in (your town.)"

You can input details about your business, such as its location and operating hours, and provide customers with contact information along with the option to showcase images of your store and products.

When your business details appear on Google after a search, it forms what is known as a business "listing." This listing contains the information displayed when people look up your business or related terms on Google.

Characteristics of Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile provides a range of tools that allow you to highlight your business and engage with your customer base.

• Ensure your business information is complete, with details such as the company name, location address, contact number, and hours of operation.

• Share photos and videos showcasing your business to highlight your products or services and provide a glimpse of your location.

• Post news and promotions along with updates and upcoming events, similar to social media platforms.

• Reviews and feedback from customers are welcome; you have the opportunity to reply to them as well.

• A Question and Answer segment is available for users to pose queries and receive responses on your profile.

• Users have the option to schedule appointments by accessing your profile.

• Connect your social media accounts to your profile for easy access to your presence.

• Users can send you messages directly via Google messaging.

• Gain performance insights by understanding how users discover and engage with your listing on the platform.

Why is a Google Business Profile Important for SEO?

Improving your Google Business Profile can enhance your SEO, boosting your business's visibility in searches and making it easier for potential customers to find you.

• Enhance Your Search Ranking – Implementing a GBP optimization plan tailored to your business needs and goals will enhance your local search ranking significantly. This will boost your online presence and draw in a larger customer base. Studies indicate that a significant percentage of users—ranging from 71% to 92%—tend to click on links found on the initial page of search results.

• Connect with Customers – Make sure to update your profile with up-to-date and precise information, such as contact details, along with photos and videos. A majority of customers rely on GBP for finding contact information—64%, to be exact. Additionally, 60% of smartphone users prefer reaching out to businesses through GBP.

• Enhance Website Traffic and Boost Sales – A tailored profile entices customers to explore your site and complete transactions successfully! GBP listings attract an average of 59 engagements monthly—comprising calls, direction inquiries, and website visits.

• Establish Credibility and Expertise – Companies with numerous GBP reviews often achieve better search engine rankings. 71% of customers indicate that GBP reviews play a role in their choice of which businesses to engage with.

How Does Google Determine Search Rankings for Businesses?

Google evaluates companies using three criteria:

1. Proximity – The distance between your business and where the searcher is located.

2. Relevance – The correlation between your business and the search term used by the user.

3. Prominence – The visibility of your business, its reputation, and recognition in both the online and physical world.

To boost your ranking in GBP search results, ensure your profile includes precise business details, secure high-quality backlinks to your website, and consistently gather feedback from satisfied customers.

Guide on Adding Your Business to Google Using GBP

To list your business on Google, you must first set up a Google Business Profile. Steps may vary depending on your circumstances and needs:

1. You don't have a listing yet; you have to establish one from the beginning.

2. Google has set up a GBP listing for your business that you should claim ownership of.

3. Your listing in GBP is active but has already been claimed by another user, so you'll have to request access.

Steps to Establish a Google Business Profile from Scratch

1. Go to the Google Business Profile page – Select "Manage."

2. Provide your business information

   • Enter the name of your business. If it is not listed, choose "Create a business with this name."

   • Select the type of business you have (Shop, Service-based, or Online Retail) and click "Next."

   • Input the category of your business and click "Next."

3. Provide your business location

   • If applicable, enter your business address and ensure your location on Google Maps is accurate.

   • If you offer services at customers' locations, specify the areas where your services are available.

4. Provide your contact details

   • Enter your business contact number and website link.

5. Accept the Terms and Conditions.

6. Verify Your Business

   • Choose to receive verification via postcard or phone call, depending on your business category and location.

7. Enhance Your Profile

   • Add details such as operating hours, services offered, a description, and photos.

Top Tips for Optimizing Your Google Business Profile

• Utilize keywords specific to the area or region you are targeting.

• Integrate relevant keywords into your business description and posts.

• Encourage customer reviews and engage with them by responding to build trust and connection.

• Regularly update business hours and contact information to ensure accuracy.

• Listings with photos attract 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks on the website.

• Utilize Google Posts to share promotions, events, and updates.

• Track performance metrics to gain insights into how customers discover and interact with your listing.

Common Errors to Avoid

• Incomplete business details – Ensure all information, including hours and contact details, is accurate.

• Failure to verify your listing – Unverified listings will not appear in search results or on Google Maps.

• Ignoring customer reviews – Engage with both positive and negative reviews to build credibility.

• Choosing the wrong business category – Selecting the appropriate industry category improves search rankings.

• Forgetting to use Google Posts – Utilize posts to share offers, events, and news updates.

Conclusion

Ensuring your business is listed on Google via a Google Business Profile is essential for enhancing visibility and attracting customers effectively. By optimizing your profile and following best practices, you can improve search rankings, engage with customers, and drive more traffic to your business. Begin the process today and manage your presence on Google confidently!