How to Claim Your Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide

Claiming your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a crucial step in establishing your online presence and attracting local customers. By claiming your listing, you can control your business information, respond to reviews, and post updates.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to claim your Google Business Profile:

1. Sign In to Google:

• Ensure you're signed in to the Google account you want to manage the business with. If you don't have a Google account, you will need to create one.

  
  

2. Search for Your Business:

• Go to Google and search for your business name.

• If your business is already listed, you'll see a knowledge panel with your business information.

  
  

3. Claim Your Business:

• Click on the "Own this business?" link

• You may be asked to verify your business through phone, email, or video.

  
  

4. Verify Your Business:

• Phone Verification: Google will call your business phone number with a verification code.

• Email Verification: You'll receive a verification code via email.

• Video Verification: You'll need to record a video showing "existence" and "affiliation". See this guide, on how our tips on to complete video verification.

  
  

5. Complete Your Business Profile:

• Once verified, you can edit and update your business information:

  • Business Name: Ensure it's accurate and consistent with your branding.

  • Business Category: Choose the most relevant category for your business.

  • Business Address: Provide your physical address.

  • Business Phone Number: Add your business phone number.

  • Business Hours: Specify your business hours.

  • Website: Link to your business website.

    
    

Tips for Optimizing Your Google Business Profile:

• Add High-Quality Photos: Use clear and attractive photos of your business, products, and services.

• Encourage Customer Reviews: Positive reviews can boost your business's reputation.

• Post Regularly: Share updates, promotions, and events through Google Posts.

• Respond to Reviews: Engage with customers by responding to reviews, both positive and negative.

• Verify Your Business: Video verification can further enhance your profile's credibility.
  

By following these steps and optimizing your Google Business Profile, you can improve your local search rankings, attract more customers, and build a strong online presence.

Brad Wetherall is the former Director of Operations for the Google Business Profile and Founder & CEO of BitWize Consulting. Brad is an expert in Google Business Profile, and has been featured speaker for both LocalU, and BrightonSEO