Creating a Google My Business (GMB) account is crucial for any business looking to increase visibility and attract more customers through Google search results and maps. This will walk you through setting up your GMB account and ensuring Google My Business profile is properly listed and optimized.
Step 1: Sign In to Google My Business
To start, visit the Google My Business website at google.com/business. If you already have a Google account (like Gmail), use it to sign in. If you don’t have a Google account, you must create one by clicking “Start now” and following the prompts to set up a new account.
Step 2: Add Your Business
Once you are logged in, you can start adding your business profile information. Move on to “Add your business to Google” and enter your business name. As you type, Google will search to see if your business is already listed. If it appears, you can claim it as yours; if not, you can continue to add your business.
Step 3: Enter Your Location
Google will ask whether you wish to add a location customers can visit, like a store or office. Select “Yes” and enter your address if you have a physical location. If you operate a service-area business and do not want your address displayed, select “No.” You can then specify the service areas your business covers.
Step 4: Fill Out Further Business Details
Provide more details about your business:
Category:
Always choose a category that best suits your business. This helps Google show your business relevant searches.
Phone number and website:
Include your contact information and URL to Google business listing, if you have one. This information will be displayed in your GMB listing.
Step 5: Business Verification
To manage your business information on Google, you need to verify your business. Google offers several verification methods:
By postcard:
This is the most common method. In this method, Google sends a postcard to the business address you provided. The postcard will typically arrive within five business days and include a verification code you must enter in Google My Business to confirm your listing.
By phone:
Some businesses can verify by receiving a phone call.
By email:
Some businesses can verify through their business email. It varies from business to business.
Instant verification:
If you’ve already verified your business with Google Search Console, you might be eligible for instant verification. It can be a quick process.
Bulk verification:
It is used for businesses with multiple locations.
Step 6: Optimize Your Profile
Once verified, optimize your GMB profile by adding more information:
- Business hours
- Photos of your business
- Additional business details, such as amenities or the types of payment accepted
- Regular posts about updates, offers, and events
Step 7: Review and Respond to Customer Interactions
Regularly check your GMB dashboard for customer reviews and questions. Always respond promptly to reviews on GMB listings and engage with your customers to improve your business’s visibility and attractiveness.
