Google Business Profile checklist: how to show up on Google Maps

When someone searches "dentist near me" or "bakery in Thrissur", Google shows a map with three businesses before any website. Those results come from Google Business Profiles. For many local businesses, this profile brings more calls than the website. Here is the checklist we use.

1. Claim and verify the profile

Search for your business on Google Maps. If a profile exists, claim it; if not, create one at business.google.com. Verification may be by phone, email, video or postcard. Until it is verified, your edits will not go live.

2. Get the basics exactly right

• Business name — your real name, without extra keywords. Stuffing keywords into the name can get a profile suspended.
• Address and service area — use your actual location, or hide the address and set service areas if you visit customers.
• Phone and website — use a number you actually answer.
• Hours — including holiday hours. Wrong hours lead to bad reviews.

3. Choose the right categories

The primary category has the biggest effect on which searches you appear for. Pick the most specific one ("Pediatric dentist", not just "Dentist", if that is what you are), then add secondary categories for other services.

4. Add services, products and a description

List each service with a short description and price where it makes sense. Write a business description that says what you do and where, in plain language — mention the town or area you serve naturally.

5. Upload real photos regularly

Add your logo, a cover photo, the outside of your premises (so people can find you), the inside, your team and your work. Profiles with fresh, real photos look more trustworthy than ones with a single stock image.

6. Ask for reviews — and reply to all of them

Ask happy customers to leave a review, and make it easy with a short link. Reply to every review, including negative ones, politely and specifically. Never buy reviews or offer rewards for them; it breaks Google's rules.

7. Post updates

Use Google posts for offers, events and news. Regular posts show customers — and Google — that the business is active.

8. Keep it consistent everywhere

Your name, address and phone should be the same on your website, social media and directories. Inconsistent details confuse both customers and search engines.

What you cannot control

Distance between the searcher and your business is a major ranking factor, and so is competition. A well-optimised profile gives you the best chance, but nobody can honestly guarantee the top spot.

Want us to set up or manage your profile? See our Google Business Profile service or contact us.