You could be the best plumber in your city, but if someone searches "plumber near me" and you don't show up, that call goes to your competitor. Every single time.
Here's the reality: 46% of all Google searches have local intent. That means nearly half the people typing into Google right now are looking for a business like yours, in their area, ready to spend money.
What Is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the free listing that appears when someone searches for your business or for services in your area. Businesses with complete profiles are 2.7 times more likely to be considered reputable by consumers.
The best part? Setting this up costs you nothing.
Step 1: Claim or Create Your Profile
Go to business.google.com and sign in with a Google account. Search for your business name. If it already exists, claim it. If not, click "Add your business."
An unclaimed profile is a liability. Anyone can suggest edits to it.
Step 2: Choose the Right Business Category
Be specific. If you're a personal injury lawyer, don't just pick "Lawyer." Pick "Personal Injury Attorney." Your primary category is one of the strongest ranking signals for local search.
Step 3: Fill Out Every Single Field
Complete your business name, address, phone number, website, hours, and service area. Profiles with complete information receive 7 times more clicks than empty ones.
Your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) must be identical everywhere it appears online.
Step 4: Add High-Quality Photos
Upload at least 10 photos. Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites.
Use your phone. Natural lighting, clean spaces, and real people beat stock photos every time.
Step 5: Write a Description That Sells
You get 750 characters. Lead with what you do and who you serve. Skip the corporate jargon.
Bad: "We leverage innovative solutions to deliver best-in-class outcomes." Good: "Family-owned plumbing company serving the greater Austin area since 2014. Same-day emergency service, upfront pricing, no hidden fees."
Step 6: Get Reviews (And Respond to Every One)
87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses. Google uses review quantity, quality, and recency as ranking factors. Ask every satisfied customer for a review. Build it into your process.
Step 7: Post Updates Weekly
Google Business Profile has a "Posts" feature. Share updates, promotions, seasonal tips. Regular posting signals to Google that your business is active.
Step 8: Track Your Performance
Check your Google Business Profile Insights monthly. Look at how people find you, what search terms trigger your listing, and how many people take action.
Need Help? Start With the Foundation.
At Kode It, we include full Google Business Profile setup and optimization free with every website package. Because a great website without local search visibility is a billboard in the desert.