Playbook
Google Business Profile Basics
Claim, verify, and optimize your Google Business Profile for local visibility and trust signals.
Overview
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is often the first touchpoint potential customers have with your brand. For businesses with any local presence, GBP optimization is essential even before broader SEO work begins.
A properly configured GBP improves local search visibility, provides trust signals, and supports your overall SEO strategy.
This guide covers claiming, verifying, and optimizing the core elements of your profile.
Setup Process
Step 1: Claim Your Profile
Search for your business on Google and click "Claim this business" if unclaimed, or sign in to business.google.com to manage an existing profile.
Why it matters: An unclaimed profile means anyone can suggest edits to your business information. Claiming gives you control over what customers see.
Step 2: Complete Verification
Follow Google's verification process — typically via postcard, phone, or email. Verification unlocks all profile management features.
Why it matters: Unverified profiles have limited visibility and features. Verification is required for your profile to appear in local search and Google Maps.
Step 3: Optimize Core Information
Complete every field: business name (exact legal name), address, phone, hours, website URL, business category (primary + secondary), and business description.
Why it matters: Complete profiles rank higher in local results. Google favors businesses that provide comprehensive, accurate information.
Step 4: Add Visual Content
Upload at least 10 high-quality photos: exterior, interior, team, and product/service images. Add your logo and a cover photo.
Why it matters: Profiles with photos receive 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks than those without.
Quick Checklist
Complete to ensure your Google Business Profile is fully optimized.
0 / 8 completed