A Google Business Profile checklist

Who can have a Google Business Profile?

A business that meets customers in person at a real location, or travels to customers within a defined service area, can have one. A virtual office, a mailbox or a rented desk used only for an address does not qualify. Profiles that break this rule risk suspension, so do not set one up without a real basis.

What should I complete first?

1. Business name exactly as it appears on your signage and invoices, with no added keywords.
2. Primary category, the most specific one that fits, plus relevant secondary categories.
3. Address or service areas, and a phone number that you answer.
4. Opening hours, including special hours for holidays.
5. Website link, pointing at the page that best matches the profile.
6. A short, factual description of what you do and who you serve.

What else lifts a profile?

Add services with plain descriptions, products if you sell them, attributes that apply to you, and photos of the premises, the team and the work. Post updates and offers when you have something real to say. Turn on messaging only if you will reply promptly.

How should I handle reviews and questions?

Ask for reviews with a direct link soon after a good job. Reply to every review in a sentence or two that refers to the job. Reply to negative reviews calmly and offer to resolve the issue offline. Answer questions on the profile yourself so the first answer is the correct one.

What mistakes cause problems?

• Keyword stuffing in the business name
• Duplicate profiles for the same location
• Hiding your address while listing it as a storefront
• Incentivized or fake reviews
• Different details on the profile and the website

How do I keep it current?

Put a monthly reminder in the calendar: check hours, add three new photos, reply to new reviews, and look at the profile insights for calls and direction requests. Fifteen minutes a month is enough to keep it active.