Google Business Profile: How to Create Your Listing

Introduction

Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) is Google’s free tool that lets you create your business’s listing. That listing is what appears on Google Maps and in the side panel when someone searches for your business.

If you have a local business, creating your Google listing is the most important thing you can do to be found. In this article you’ll see how to create and optimize it.

Step 1: Create the listing

1. Go to business.google.com.
2. Sign in with your Google account.
3. Click Add your business.
4. Enter your business name.
5. Choose the main category (very important: choose the most precise).
6. Indicate whether you have a physical location or provide services remotely.
7. Enter your address.
8. Indicate your service area (if applicable).
9. Add your phone and website.
10. Verify your business.

Verification is usually done by postcard: Google sends a card with a code to your address. Takes 1-2 weeks.

Step 2: Complete the listing

Once verified, complete all fields:

• Opening hours: detailed, including holidays.
• Description: clear text about your business (maximum 750 characters).
• Photos: exterior, interior, team, products, work.
• Services: complete list of what you offer.
• Products: if you sell products, with photo and price.
• Attributes: specific characteristics (WiFi, terrace, accessible, etc.).

[Imagen sugerida: screenshot of a complete Google Business Profile listing]

Complete listings with photos rank better than those with little information.

Step 3: Get and respond to reviews

Reviews are the most influential local SEO factor. Ask your clients and respond to all:

• Ask for reviews from satisfied customers, in person or by email.
• Create a direct link to the review to facilitate it.
• Respond to positive ones thanking.
• Respond to negative ones politely and offering a solution.

Step 4: Publish updates

Google Business Profile allows publishing updates (like short posts):

• Special offers.
• Events.
• News.
• New products.

Publications keep your listing active and Google values it positively.

Step 5: Use Messages

Google allows customers to send you direct messages from the listing. Enable it if you can respond quickly.

Step 6: Review statistics

Google Business Profile gives you statistics:

• Searches: how many times they search for you.
• Calls: how many calls you receive from the listing.
• Directions: how many people ask for directions.
• Website visits: how many people click to your website.

This data tells you if your listing works and what to improve.

Useful tips

• Choose the right category. It’s one of the most important local SEO factors.
• Upload photos regularly. Active listings rank better.
• Keep hours updated. Especially on holidays and vacations.
• Ask for reviews endlessly. It’s what impacts most.
• Respond to all reviews. Show you care.

Frequently asked questions

Is Google Business Profile free?

Yes, totally free.

How long does verification take?

Postcard verification takes 1-2 weeks. In some cases, Google allows video or email verification.

Can I have several listings?

Yes, if you have several locations. One listing per physical location.

Can I appear if I work from home?

Yes, but you shouldn’t show your home address. Mark the “don’t show address” option and work as a remote service.

Can reviews be deleted?

Only if they violate Google’s policies (spam, offensive content). Real negative reviews can’t be deleted.

Your Google listing, your internet showcase

Google Business Profile is your business’s internet showcase. It’s free, it’s powerful and it’s what makes you appear when someone searches for you. If you have a local business and don’t have it, create it today.

If you need help with your local SEO or website, at miHosting we advise you. Open a ticket from your client panel.