When someone searches for a business like yours nearby, your Google Business Profile is often the first thing they see, before your website. This guide explains what it is and how to set it up properly.
What it is
Your Google Business Profile is the free listing that appears on Google Maps and in local search results. It shows your hours, phone number, website, photos and reviews.
Why it matters
It is free visibility. An unclaimed or incomplete profile means missed customers. A complete one, with real reviews and accurate information, builds trust before anyone calls.
What a good profile includes
- Complete details: hours, phone number, website and photos
- The right categories and services for local search
- A system for responding to reviews
- Insights set up, so you can see how customers find and interact with you
Do you need a physical location?
Google wants either a real address customers can visit, or a service area if you travel to your customers. Businesses with no storefront or office are sometimes rejected, which is a common reason applications fail. We work with service area businesses and know how to set them up correctly.
Common problems
- Suspended profiles. Google can suspend a profile over verification or guideline issues, and recovering one takes careful work.
- Someone else owns the listing. Reclaiming a listing from a former owner or agency is possible but takes extra steps.
What it costs with us
- Standard setup: $500
- Reclaiming an existing listing: $750
- Suspended profiles: from $500
- Ongoing management: $500 per month, covering posting updates, review responses and keeping the profile accurate
The short answer
A complete, accurate and well managed profile is one of the cheapest ways to get found locally. Request a free audit and we will tell you what your profile needs.