HOW DO I ADD MY BUSINESS TO GOOGLE?

At Lillian Purge, we specialise in Local SEO Services and have produced a step-by-step guide on How do I Add my Business to Google to help you claim your listing and start reaching local customers fast.

Adding your business to Google ensures that it appears in Google Search and Google Maps when people look for services you offer in your area. It helps you reach local customers at the exact moment they’re searching for what you do.

For example, if someone searches for “electrician near me” or “hairdresser in Bedford”, Google displays local business listings before standard search results. These listings come from Google Business Profile (GBP), the free tool that connects your business directly with potential customers.

Having a verified listing also builds trust. Users can see genuine reviews, directions, and contact options, making it easier for them to choose your business over competitors without a verified presence.

Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile

To begin, visit the Google Business Profile website and click “Manage now”. You’ll need to sign in using your Google account. If you don’t already have one, create a new Google account using your business email address.

Once logged in, click the option to “Add your business to Google”.

Step 2: Enter Your Business Name and Category

Type your business name exactly as it appears on your signage, website, and other marketing materials. Consistency is key for local SEO, as Google uses this information to verify your identity across the web.

Next, select your business category. This helps Google understand what your business does and match it with relevant search queries. For example, if you’re a plumber, choose “Plumber” as your primary category rather than a broader term like “Home Services”.

You can add additional categories later, but always choose one main category that best describes your core service.

Step 3: Add Your Business Address

If you serve customers at a physical location, enter your address accurately. This allows your business to appear on Google Maps and makes it easier for people to visit you.

If your business operates remotely or offers services at customer locations, you can choose “No” when asked if you have a physical location. Instead, select the areas or regions you serve. For example, a mobile mechanic could list “Bedford, Milton Keynes, and Luton” as service areas.

Step 4: Add Contact Details

Google will then ask for your business phone number and website URL. These details allow customers to contact you directly or learn more about your services.

If you don’t have a website, you can choose to create a free basic site using your Google Business Profile, but a dedicated website offers more control and professionalism.

Make sure the phone number you enter is the same one displayed on your website and social media profiles. Consistency across platforms improves trust and ranking potential.

Step 5: Verify Your Business

Verification confirms that you’re the rightful owner or manager of the business. Google offers several verification methods depending on your type of business and location:

  • Postcard verification: Google mails a postcard containing a verification code to your address.

  • Phone or email verification: Available for certain businesses; Google sends a code via text or email.

  • Instant verification: If your business is already verified in Google Search Console, you may be verified automatically.

After receiving your code, sign back in to your Google Business Profile and enter the code to complete verification.

Step 6: Optimise Your Profile

Once verified, your listing becomes visible in Google Search and Maps. To maximise visibility, fill out your profile completely. Include:

  • Business description: Write a short overview of what you do, who you serve, and what makes you unique.

  • Opening hours: Add accurate hours, including special hours for holidays.

  • Photos: Upload clear images of your storefront, products, services, and team to increase engagement.

  • Services and products: List what you offer to appear in relevant searches.

  • Attributes: Add features like “wheelchair accessible” or “free Wi-Fi” if applicable.

Google prioritises complete profiles, so the more details you provide, the better your chances of ranking in local results.

Step 7: Add Posts and Updates

Your Google Business Profile allows you to share posts, offers, and news. These updates appear directly in your listing, helping attract attention and engagement. You can use posts to:

  • Announce new products or promotions.

  • Share event details.

  • Publish helpful local tips or company updates.

Posting regularly keeps your profile active, which signals to Google that your business is engaged and up to date.

Step 8: Encourage and Manage Reviews

Customer reviews are a key ranking factor in local SEO. Positive reviews improve credibility and can help you appear higher in Google’s local pack results.

Encourage satisfied customers to leave honest reviews on your profile. You can share a direct review link through your profile’s dashboard.

Always respond to reviews both positive and negative. Thank customers for their feedback and address concerns professionally. Consistent engagement builds trust and demonstrates strong customer service.

Step 9: Track Performance

Once your profile is live, use the built-in analytics tools to monitor performance. Google provides insights on:

  • How customers find your listing (search or maps).

  • The keywords people use to discover your business.

  • How many calls, website visits, and direction requests come from your profile.

These insights help you understand which marketing efforts drive the most results, allowing you to refine your local SEO strategy.

Step 10: Keep Your Information Up to Date

Maintaining your profile is just as important as setting it up. Update your business information whenever you change hours, phone numbers, or locations. Outdated details can frustrate customers and harm your visibility in search results.

If your business closes temporarily or permanently, update your status accordingly. Google rewards accuracy and penalises listings with inconsistent or misleading information.

Benefits of Adding Your Business to Google

  • Increased visibility: Appear in local searches and Google Maps when customers are nearby.

  • Enhanced trust: Verified listings appear more credible.

  • Direct engagement: Customers can call, message, or review your business directly from the listing.

  • Improved local rankings: A complete, active profile strengthens your presence in local SEO results.

For small and local businesses, adding your company to Google is often the single most impactful step for attracting new customers online.

Final Thoughts

Adding your business to Google is a straightforward yet powerful way to improve your online visibility and reach local customers. A complete and verified Google Business Profile not only helps people find your business easily but also builds trust and encourages engagement.

Regular updates, accurate information, and consistent customer interaction will ensure your listing stays relevant and competitive in local search.

At Lillian Purge, we help businesses like yours optimise their Google listings and local SEO strategies, ensuring that your brand stands out in search and drives more local traffic to your door.

We have also written in depth articles on Do Google Reviews Help SEO and How to Delete my Business from Google as well as our Google My Business Hub to give you further guidance.