When someone searches for a service near them, Google often shows a map with local businesses. Appearing there starts with a well-managed Google Business Profile and a few consistent habits. Use this checklist as a starting point.
1. Claim and verify your profile
Make sure the profile belongs to you and is verified. An unverified or unclaimed profile limits what you can control.
2. Complete every relevant section
- Business name exactly as it appears on your signage and website.
- Accurate address or service area, phone number, website and opening hours, including holiday hours.
- A primary category that describes what you mainly do, plus relevant additional categories.
- A clear description, and your services or products.
- Real photos of your premises, team and work.
3. Keep your details consistent
Your business name, address and phone number should match across your website, your profile and the directories where you are listed. Inconsistent details can confuse both customers and search engines.
4. Build local citations
Citations are mentions of your business details in relevant online directories. Focus on reputable, relevant listings and keep each one accurate rather than chasing a very large number.
5. Earn genuine reviews
- Ask satisfied customers to leave an honest review, for example after a completed job.
- Respond politely to every review, positive or negative.
- Never buy reviews or offer rewards for positive ones, because it breaks Google's policies.
6. Build relevant local links
Links from local organisations, suppliers, partners and community websites can support your local visibility. Aim for links that exist for a real reason and avoid paid link schemes.
7. Check your website
Make sure your website clearly states what you do and where, loads quickly on a phone, and links to your profile and contact details.
Keep it realistic
Local rankings depend on factors such as competition, proximity and relevance, so no one can honestly promise a number one position. Steady, accurate and consistent work is what moves the needle. If you would like us to audit your profile and tell you what to fix first, we can do that.
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