You’ll start by signing into your Google account, then visit google.com/business to search for your business name and location. If it exists, claim it; if not, click “Add your business” and enter your business name, category, and exact address. Upload photos, add your phone number and website, then verify through post, phone, or email. Google typically sends a postcard with a verification code within 5-14 days. Once verified, optimise your profile with hours, services, and regular updates to maximise your local search visibility and discover advanced strategies that boost customer engagement.
Creating Your Google Account for Business Profile Management
Before you can claim your business on Google Maps or appear in local search results, you’ll need to create a Google Account that acts as your gateway to the entire Google Business ecosystem.
The good news? Account creation is completely free, with no hidden fees or costs. You can either create a new Google Account using Gmail or link your existing business email address to a Google Account.
Here’s the thing – use a business-dedicated account rather than your personal one. Trust me on this.
Always use a dedicated business account instead of your personal Google Account for professional credibility and easier management.
During setup, enter your business contact details accurately. You’ll become the account holder responsible for managing your Business Profile and accessing Google’s management tools.
This foundation connects you to Google Maps, Search visibility controls, and the Business Profile dashboard where real management takes place. Once established, this account becomes your central hub for accessing valuable tools and features that Google offers to enhance your business presence online.
Discovering and Claiming Your Existing Business Listing
Now that you’ve set up your Google Account, here’s where things get interesting – your business might already exist on Google without you knowing it. Google automatically creates listings from various data sources, so there’s a good chance your business is already out there, just waiting for you to claim it.
Here’s how to find and claim your existing listing:
- Search Google and Google Maps – Type your business name plus your city into both platforms. Look for your business panel on the right side of search results or in map listings.
- Check the claiming status – If you find your listing, look for “Own this business?” or “Claim this business” links to start the claiming process. Taking control prevents competitors from managing your business profile and ensures you maintain accurate information.
- Navigate to business.google.com – Click “Manage Now” and follow the verification steps. This will establish ownership control of your listing.
Configuring Business Information and Category Selection
Category selection forms the foundation of your Google Business Profile’s success – get this wrong, and you’ll be fighting a losing battle for visibility that you simply cannot win.
Your primary category serves as your business’s digital identity. Opt for the most specific option available rather than broad terms. “Divorce Solicitor” outperforms “Solicitor” every time.
| Business Type | Primary Category | Secondary Categories |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Restaurant | Italian Restaurant | Restaurant, Pizza Restaurant |
| HVAC Company | HVAC Contractor | Heating Contractor, Air Conditioning |
| Divorce Lawyer | Divorce Solicitor | Family Law Solicitor, Solicitor |
Navigate to “Edit Profile,” then “Info” to configure categories. You’re restricted to Google’s existing options – no custom categories are permitted.
Select 1 primary plus a maximum of 2-3 secondary categories. This ensures your business appears in the most relevant searches without diluting your focus.
Install the Phantom Chrome Extension to investigate competitor categories. Update yours monthly as Google introduces new options. Consider adjusting your primary category to align with seasonal demand patterns, such as switching HVAC contractors from air conditioning repair in summer to furnace repair during winter months.
Setting Up Location Details and Contact Information
Your business address isn’t just text in a field – it’s the foundation that determines whether customers can actually find you or end up wandering around confused in a car park.
Enter your complete street address with all the details that matter. Skip the abbreviations – they confuse mapping systems more than help them. Proper addressing saves you from frustrated customers ringing for directions.
Enter complete address details – Include building numbers, suite information, floor numbers, and unit details that are part of your official business address. South African postal services require precise addressing for reliable delivery. For businesses with complex locations like those in office parks, specifying details such as building names and floor numbers becomes even more critical for customer navigation.
Position your map pin accurately – Use the drag-and-drop feature to place the pin exactly where your business sits, not somewhere in the general vicinity.
Sign in with your business email – Use a Google account linked to your custom domain for brand consistency and admin rights. This ensures you maintain control over your business listing.
Profile changes typically appear within 10 minutes.
Completing Profile Verification and Optimisation
Getting through Google’s verification process can make or break your entire Business Profile setup – miss this step, and you’re essentially invisible to local searchers.
You’ll likely face video verification in 2025, especially for new profiles or address changes. Google wants current location footage showing nearby streets, building signage, and business equipment like office fixtures or point-of-sale systems.
Include your business licence or storage areas as proof of management. Avoid showing faces or sensitive documents while capturing entry procedures.
Traditional postcards take 5-14 days, while video reviews process in 3-5 business days.
Don’t edit your business name, address, or category during verification – you’ll invalidate your codes.
After verification, add GPS-enabled photos and supporting documentation like utility bills to strengthen your profile’s credibility and local search visibility.