How-To Guides

How to Get Your Business on Google Maps for Free

Set up a free Google Business Profile so customers can find you on Google Search and Maps, see your hours and leave reviews.

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Nov 1, 2026
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When someone searches "printing near me" or "plumber in Mandeville", the businesses that come up with a map, photos and reviews have a Google Business Profile. It's free, and it's one of the best things a local business can do to get found.

What you need

  • A Google account (a Gmail address works)
  • Your business name, address or service area, and phone number
  • A few good photos

Step 1: Start your profile

Go to google.com/business and click Manage now. Sign in, type your business name and follow the prompts.

Step 2: Choose your category

Pick the category that best describes what you do, like "Printing service" or "General contractor". You can add more categories later.

Step 3: Add your location or service area

  • If customers come to you, add your address and place the pin carefully on the map.
  • If you go to customers, like a plumber or contractor, add the areas you serve instead. You can hide your home address.

Step 4: Add your contact details

Add your phone number and website if you have one. If you don't have a website, you can still create the profile.

Step 5: Verify your business

Google needs to check that you're real. It may ask you to verify by phone, text, email or a short video of your business. Follow the steps it gives you. Your profile only goes fully live once you're verified.

Step 6: Finish your profile

A complete profile ranks better and gets more calls. Add:

  • Opening hours, including holidays
  • Photos of your shop, your work and your team
  • A short description of what you do
  • Your products or services with prices

Step 7: Get reviews

Reviews are what make people pick you. Ask happy customers to leave one. Google gives you a short link you can send on WhatsApp. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely.

Keep it up to date

  • Change your hours when they change
  • Add new photos now and again
  • Post updates and offers

Never pay someone who promises to "get you to the top of Google". Do it yourself, keep it accurate and keep collecting reviews.