How to get your business on Google Maps, step by step

Why it matters

Most people find local businesses on their phone. They search, look at the map, read a few reviews, and then call, visit or book. If your business isn’t on the map, they pick someone who is.

A Google Business Profile is free. It shows your name, location, opening hours, photos and reviews right in Google Search and Google Maps.

Before you start

Have these ready. It makes the whole thing much quicker.

• A Google account you’ll keep using for the business
• Your exact business name, the way it appears on your signboard
• Your address, or the areas you serve if customers don’t come to you
• Your opening hours, a phone number and your website, if you have one
• A few good photos: the front of your business, the inside, and what you sell

The 6 steps

1. Go to Google Business ProfileVisit google.com/business and sign in with your Google account.
2. Add your name and categoryType your business name, then choose the category that fits best, like "Hotel", "Cafe" or "Dentist".
3. Add your locationIf customers visit you, add your address and check that the pin sits on the right building. If you go to customers, add the areas you serve instead.
4. Add your contact detailsAdd the phone number and website you want customers to use.
5. Verify your businessGoogle needs to check the business is yours. Depending on your business, it may ask for a short video, a code by phone or email, or a postcard. Follow the steps it shows you.
6. Finish your profileAdd your opening hours, photos and a short description of what you do. Complete profiles get more clicks.

Common mistakes

• Adding extra words to your name. “Hotel Chinar Best Rooms Srinagar” breaks Google’s rules and can get your listing suspended. Use your real name only.
• A pin in the wrong place. Zoom in and check it. A wrong pin sends customers to the wrong street.
• Forgetting seasonal hours. If you close for part of winter or change hours in the tourist season, update your profile so people don’t arrive to a closed door.

After you’re live

Your profile isn’t a one-time job. A little attention each month keeps it working for you:

• Ask happy customers to leave a review, and reply to every review, good or bad.
• Add new photos when something changes, like a new menu or renovated rooms.
• Post updates for offers, events or seasonal news.

Your profile works best alongside a good website. When people tap through from Maps, your website is where they decide to call, visit or book.