how do i get my business on google maps
you need a google business profile. it is free. it is separate from your website. you need both.
what a google business profile is
a google business profile is the listing that appears when someone searches your business name, or searches for a service near them. it shows your address, phone number, opening hours, reviews, and a link to your website.
it is what appears in the map results — the block of three businesses that appears above the regular search results for local service searches.
how to set one up
- go to business.google.com
- sign in with a google account
- enter your business name
- choose your business category (e.g. plumber, electrician, builder)
- add your service area or address
- add phone number and website
- verify your listing
verification is usually done by postcard. google sends a card to your business address with a code. you enter the code online. the listing goes live.
why reviews matter
google ranks local listings partly by review count and rating. a business with 10 reviews at 4.8 stars ranks above a business with no reviews, all else being equal.
ask satisfied customers to leave a review. send them the direct link. make it easy.
where your website fits in
your google business profile links to your website. when someone finds your listing and wants more information, they click through to your site.
a profile without a website loses people at that step.
what computer web builds
a website that exists at your domain, loads fast, and gives google something credible to link to from your profile. £179. most sites exist within 7 days.