Learn How to set up and optimize your Google Business Profile to attract local customers and boost visibility. Step-by-step guide with expert tips.
- Why Google Business Profile Matters
- Step 1: Create or Claim Your Profile
- Step 2: Fill Out All Business Details Completely
- Step 3: Choose the Right Categories and Attributes
- Step 4: Add Photos and Videos
- Step 5: Optimize for Reviews and Customer Interaction
- Step 6: Use Insights and Promotions
- Boost Local Visibility Using Tools Like InProfile
- Key Takeaways
If you own a small business — whether it’s a coffee shop, dental clinic, salon, mobile shop, taxi service, or retail boutique — your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is often the first impression for potential customers. It’s a free tool that puts your business on Google Search and Maps, helping local users find and connect with you.
In fact, 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business within a day (Think with Google). Yet, many small business profiles are incomplete or outdated — causing missed opportunities.
Ready to get seen by more local customers and make your listing work harder for you? Here’s a simple guide to set up your Google Business Profile for maximum impact.
Visit Google Business and sign in with your Google account. Then:
- Search your business name: If it pops up, claim it.
- If it doesn’t exist: Click ‘Add Your Business to Google’ and begin setup.
You’ll be asked to verify ownership through your phone or email. This is critical — unverified businesses won’t show fully in search or maps results.
Once verified, take time to complete all the information. Google prioritizes businesses with full profiles. Be sure to include:
- Business Name (as it appears on signage)
- Address (or service area if you’re mobile-based)
- Phone number and website URL (you can add inProfile’s mini website link here..)
- Hours of operation
- Business description with keywords like “family dentist in Surat” or “vegan café in Ahmedabad”
Keep your info consistent with your website and social accounts. Think of it like dressing your storefront — it builds trust and helps Google connect your presence across platforms.
Choosing accurate and specific categories helps your business surface in relevant local searches. For example:
- “Hairdresser” might be good — but “Natural Hair Salon” is better if that’s your niche.
- If you’re a plumber who offers 24/7 service, add that as an attribute.
Don’t guess — search for competitors and see what categories they use. Google also allows secondary categories, so take advantage!
You can use a Chrome Extension like GMB Everywhere to find your competitor’s different Categories
Google says businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks (Google Support).
Upload:
- Your logo and cover image
- Photos of your location, staff, services, and happy customers
- Short videos — tour your space, show off meals or demonstrate services
Make sure visuals are bright, professional, and updated regularly.
Reviews play a major role in customer decision-making. BrightLocal found that 87% of consumers used Google to evaluate local businesses in 2025.
Encourage reviews by:
- Asking happy customers directly (in person or via text)
- Including your review link in receipts or email footers
- Making it easy to leave a review — tools like InProfile provide AI-generated QR codes and review prompts so customers just scan, tap, and post.
- ✅ Have I made it easy for customers to leave a review?
- ✅ Am I replying to all reviews — especially negative ones?
- ✅ Did I thank happy reviewers and address concerns promptly?
Also activate the messaging feature so customers can chat directly with you from your profile.
Once your profile is live, monitor its performance using Google’s Insights tab. It shows:
- How customers find you (search terms)
- What actions they take (calls, clicks, direction requests)
Keep your profile fresh by creating occasional updates or posts — like special offers, event announcements, or product launches.
Remember: An active profile ranks higher.
Running a small business often means limited time. That’s where solutions like InProfile shine. With just your review link and a few clicks, InProfile creates:
- Branded QR code & AI-generated review page — so customers don’t have to think about what to write
- Auto-copy & redirect to make reviews frictionless
- A free mini-website with SEO-friendly design to boost online visibility
Many salons, cafes, and service-based professionals use this to get more positive reviews and greater customer trust — effortlessly.
“A friend told me about InProfile — now we get three times more Google reviews per week and customers love the QR scan feature!” – Sam, Café Owner
- Claim and verify your profile to show up in Maps and Search
- Fill out all details and use accurate business categories
- Add real photos and encourage reviews consistently
- Engage with customers through messaging and posts
- Use helpful tools like InProfile to automate review collection and enhance your profile
